Toning garment with rotational axis offset compensation

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a muscle toning garment with resistance elements, which may be fluid filled dampers. The garment provides resistance to movement throughout an angular range of motion. The garment may be low profile, and worn by a wearer as a primary garment or beneath conventional clothing. Toning may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer&#39;s normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques. Sensors may be provided for sensing any of a variety of biometric parameters and for determining exerted power or calories consumed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/951,947, filed on Nov. 22, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No.8,986,177, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/797,718, filed on Jun. 10, 2010 which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/218,607, filed Jun. 19, 2009. Thisapplication is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/450,228 filed Aug. 2, 2014, which is a continuation in partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/217,576 filed Mar. 18, 2014,which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/192,805 filed Feb. 27, 2014. The entireties of all of the foregoingapplications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Resistance training, sometimes known as weight training or strengthtraining, is a specialized method of conditioning designed to increasemuscle strength, muscle endurance, tone and muscle power. Resistancetraining refers to the use of any one or a combination of trainingmethods which may include resistance machines, dumbbells, barbells, bodyweight, and rubber tubing.

The goal of resistance training, according to the American SportsMedicine Institute (ASMI), is to “gradually and progressively overloadthe musculoskeletal system so it gets stronger.” This is accomplished byexerting effort against a specific opposing force such as that generatedby elastic resistance (i.e. resistance to being stretched or bent).Exercises are isotonic if a body part is moving against the force.Exercises are isometric if a body part is holding still against theforce. Resistance exercise is used to develop the strength and size ofskeletal muscles. Full range of motion is important in resistancetraining because muscle overload occurs only at the specific jointangles where the muscle is worked. Properly performed, resistancetraining can provide significant functional benefits and improvement inoverall health and well-being.

Research shows that regular resistance training will strengthen and tonemuscles and increase bone mass. Resistance training should not beconfused with weightlifting, power lifting or bodybuilding, which arecompetitive sports involving different types of strength training withnon-elastic forces such as gravity (weight training or plyometrics) animmovable resistance (isometrics, usually the body's own muscles or astructural feature such as a door frame).

Whether or not increased strength is an objective, repetitive resistancetraining can also be utilized to elevate aerobic metabolism, for thepurpose of weight loss, and to enhance muscle tone.

Resistance exercise equipment has therefore developed into a populartool used for conditioning, strength training, muscle building, andweight loss. Various types of resistance exercise equipment are known,such as free weights, exercise machines, and resistance exercise bandsor tubing.

Various limitations exist with the prior art exercise devices. Forexample, many types of exercise equipment, such as free weights and mostexercise machines, are not portable. With respect to exercise bands andtubing, they may need to be attached to a stationary object, such as aclosed door or a heavy piece of furniture, and require sufficient space.This becomes a problem when, for example, the user wishes to performresistance exercises in a location where such stationary objects orsufficient space are not readily found.

Resistance bands are also limited to a single resistance profile inwhich the amount of resistance changes as a function of angulardisplacement of the joint under load. This may result in under workingthe muscles at the front end of a motion cycle, and over working themuscles at the back end of the cycle. Conventional elastic devices alsoprovide a unidirectional bias that varies in intensity throughout anangular range but not in direction. Such devices thus cannot work boththe flexor and extensor muscles of a given motion segment withoutadjustment. Users of the foregoing devices are as a practical matteralso quite limited in what else they may be able to simultaneouslyaccomplish.

A need therefore exists for resistance based wearable toning equipmentthat may be used on its own without the need to employ other types ofequipment, that free the wearer for other simultaneous activities, andthat applies a non-elastic load throughout both a flexion and extensionrange of motion.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is provided in accordance with one aspect of the presentinvention, a low profile, wearable, dynamic resistance toning device.The dynamic resistance device may comprise a garment having a waistband,for attachment around the waist of a wearer, a left leg and a right leg.

At least one left leg resistance unit and at least one right legresistance unit is carried by the garment. The resistance units mayimpart single direction or bidirectional resistance to movementthroughout a range of motion.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a toning garment, comprising a waist; a left leg, extendingacross a left hip and optionally a left knee; a right leg, extendingacross a right hip and optionally a right knee; a left fluid filleddamper at the left hip; a right fluid filled damper at the right hip; aleft femoral lever connected to the left fluid filled damper; a rightfemoral lever connected to the right fluid filled damper; wherein atleast a portion of the left and right femoral levers is axiallyreciprocally moveable with respect to adjacent portions of the left andright leg of the garment.

The left fluid filled damper may comprise a housing and a rotatableconnector, wherein the housing is secured against rotation with respectto the waist. The housing may be secured to the garment by stitching.The rotatable connector may be linked to the leg so that flexion orextension at the hip causes the connector to rotate. The rotatableconnector may be linked to the leg by a lever. The lever may besufficiently flexible in the medial lateral direction to conform to theleg of a wearer when the garment is worn. The garment may furthercomprise at least one force dissipation panel attached to the lever. Theleft and right dampers may be removably secured to the garment. Thegarment may comprise a compression fabric.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a lowerbody toning garment is provided, comprising: a waist portion, a rightleg and a left leg; a left rotation point on a lateral side of the leftleg and a right rotation point on a lateral side of the right leg, theleft and right rotation points functionally aligned with a transverseaxis of rotation extending through the center of rotation of a wearer'sright and left hip; a left resistance unit mounted at the left rotationpoint; a right resistance unit mounted at the right rotation point; eachof the left and right resistance units comprising a housing and a leverarm rotatable through a range of motion with respect to the housing;wherein the housing for the left resistance unit is attached to thegarment at the left rotation point and a left lever arm is attached tothe left leg; and the housing for the right resistance unit is attachedto the garment at the right rotation point and a right lever arm isattached to the right leg.

The garment may additionally comprise a force dissipation layer attachedto each of the right and left resistance elements, to resist rotation ofthe resistance elements relative to the garment. The garment mayadditionally comprise a force dissipation layer attached to each of theright and left lever arms to enhance force transfer. Each of the leftand right resistance units provide at least about 2 inch pounds oftorque, and in some embodiments at least about 5 or 7 or 10 inch poundsof torque. Each of the left and right resistance units may comprise afluid filled damper. Each of the left and right resistance units may beremovably mounted to the garment. At least one of the left and rightresistance units may comprises an electrical generator.

A modular resistance unit is also provided, for releasable connection toa toning garment. The modular resistance unit comprises a femoral leverhaving a proximal end and a distal end, a thickness and a width thatexceeds a thickness, the lever arm conformable to the leg of a wearerwhen mounted on the toning garment such that the width faces the leg ofa wearer in an as worn orientation; a resistance unit carried by theproximal end of the lever; a coupling on the resistance unit, forreleasable coupling to a complementary coupling carried by the garment;configured such that when the femoral lever is secured to the leg of thegarment, the coupling on the damper is connected to the complementarycoupling on the garment and the garment is worn by a wearer, the modularresistance unit provides resistance to movement at the wearer's hip. Thecoupling may comprise an aperture for receiving a post carried by thegarment. The modular resistance unit may further comprise a lock forlocking the coupling on the resistance unit to the complementarycoupling carried by the garment. The lock may comprise a rotatable knobor quick release button or lever.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provideda wearable measurement system for measuring power exerted by the weareragainst a resistive force, comprising at least one force sensor carriedby a garment and configured for measuring force exerted by the wearerupon motion which is opposed by resistance provided by a resistanceelement carried by the garment.

There is further provided a resistance module, for releasable connectionto a garment, comprising: a resistance element; a connector on theresistance element for releasable connection to the garment; and afemoral lever, moveable with respect to the connector. The resistanceelement may comprise a fluid damper, such as a rotary fluid damper. Theresistance module may further comprise at least one force sensor, andoptionally at least two or four or more force sensors. The force sensormay be carried by the femoral lever.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a wearable toning and exertion measurement system, comprising:a wearable support, a resistance element carried by the support; asensor for sensing force exerted by the wearer; a processing module forprocessing sensed force data; and a transmitter for transmitting data toa remote device. The transmitter may be an ANT+ configured transmitter.The wearable measurement system may be configured to display exertedpower and or calories consumed. The system may also include a sensor formeasuring a biometric parameter such as blood oxygen saturation, or aninput for receiving blood oxygen saturation data. A feedback effectorsuch as a visual display, indicator light, audio display or tactilefeedback device such as a vibrator may be provided to indicate to thewearer their status or change in status between aerobic and anaerobicmetabolic pathway.

The present invention further provides a wearable support, for receivinga resistance module for providing resistance to movement across a rangeof motion. A selection of resistance modules may be provided, havingdifferent, graduated resistance ratings. The wearable support comprisesa support body, for mounting on the body of a wearer; a docking stationon the support, located on a first portion of the wearer's body in an asworn configuration; a first connector on the docking station, forreceiving a resistance module; the first connector secured againstrotation with respect to the support body; and a second connector on thesupport body, located on a second portion of the wearer's body in the asworn configuration, separated by the first portion by a motion segment.The support body may comprise a waist portion for encircling the waistof the wearer. The first connector may comprises a post for engaging anaperture on the resistance module. The second connector may beconfigured to removably receive a femoral lever attached to theresistance module.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent to those of skill in the art in view of the detaileddescription of preferred embodiments which follows, when consideredtogether with attached drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plot of different resistance profiles as a function ofangular rotation of a joint or motion segment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a comparison in muscle loading throughout an angularrange for a constant resistance device and an elastic resistance device.

FIG. 3 illustrates a comparison in muscle loading throughout an angularrange for a hybrid resistance device having a constant resistancecomponent and an elastic resistance component.

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of a garment incorporating resistancefeatures in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a partial elevational view of a resistance element inaccordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective views of an alternative resistancegarment in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative resistance garment inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flat plan view of the resistance garment of FIG. 7.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are side elevational views of detachable componenttoning garments, having a resistance element extending in theinferior-superior direction.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 10-10 of FIGS. 9Aand 9B, showing a removable resistance element secured to the garment.

FIG. 10A is an enlarged view taken along the line 10A-10A of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view through a detachable componentresistance element, showing an alternate attachment structure.

FIG. 11A is an enlarged view taken along the line 11A-11A in FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view as in FIG. 10, showing an alternateattachment structure between the resistance element and the garment.

FIG. 12A is an enlarged view taken along the line 12A-12A in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of a toning garment showing a righthip and a right knee resistance unit.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of a toning garment resistance unit.

FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the resistance unit of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of an alternate configuration of theresistance unit of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a resistance unit as in FIG. 14, attached to a garment withforce distribution fabric layers.

FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the resistance unit and garmentassembly of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of an alternate configuration of theresistance unit and garment assembly of FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 is a resistance unit secured to a garment, showing analternative reinforced femoral attachment configuration.

FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of a resistance unit having asuperior connector, an inferior, femoral connector and a resistanceelement.

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the resistance unit of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a side elevational view of a left side resistance unit,having a posterior connector for connection to a right side resistanceunit.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a detachable, modular resistance unit,having a resistance element and a femoral lever arm.

FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of a lower body garment, having aresistance unit docking station aligned with the hip.

FIG. 25A is a detail view taken along the line 25A-25A in FIG. 25.

FIG. 26 is a garment as in FIG. 25, with a removable modular resistanceunit partially assembled with the garment.

FIG. 27 is a garment as in FIG. 26, with the removable modularresistance unit fully installed, and engaged with the docking station.

FIG. 28 is a posterior elevational view of a human pelvis, showing theaxis of AP plane rotation relative to the iliac crest and a right sideresistance unit of the present invention in an as worn orientation.

FIG. 29 is an enlarged, perspective view of a rotary damper useful inthe present invention.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the rotary damper of FIG. 29, with aportion of the housing removed.

FIG. 31 is a side view of an athletic training garment incorporating hipand knee resistance units and technical fabric features of the presentinvention.

FIG. 32 is a schematic illustration of a rotational axis offset betweenthe hip and resistance element axes of rotation.

FIG. 33 is a side elevational view as in FIG. 27, including forcesensors to determine power exerted and or calories burned.

FIG. 34 is a block diagram of sensor electronics.

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of a remote display unit.

FIG. 36 is a block diagram of a bilateral power measurement system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiments are provided herein.It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may beembodied in various other forms. Therefore, specific details disclosedherein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis forthe claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in theart to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriatelydetailed system, structure or manner.

In general, the devices in accordance with the present invention aredesigned to provide resistance to motion between a first region and asecond region of the body such as across a simple or complex joint,(e.g., hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, etc.), throughout an angular range ofmotion. The resistance can be either unidirectional, to isolate a singlemuscle or muscle group, or preferably bidirectional to exercise opposingmuscle pairs or muscle groups. Optionally, the device will be useradjustable to select uni or bidirectional resistance, and/or differentresistance levels.

The knee joint is a uni-axial hinge joint. The knee moves in a flexion(bending of the knee) and extension (straightening of the knee)direction. The three major bones that form the knee joint are: the femur(thigh bone), the tibia (shin bone), and the patella (kneecap). Theprime muscle movers of the knee joint are the quadriceps muscles (on topof the femur), which move the knee into extension; and the hamstringmuscles (underneath the femur), which move the knee into flexion. Thequadriceps muscles are made up of five muscles known as the rectusfemoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, vastus intermedius and asecondary muscle, the vastus medialis oblique (VMO). The hamstring ismade up of three muscles known as the biceps femoris, semimembranosus,and semitendinosus. The hamstring to quadriceps muscle strength ratio istwo-thirds; meaning, the hamstring is normally approximatelythirty-three percent weaker than the quadriceps. The muscles, ligaments,nervous system, and skeletal system work in unison to stabilize the kneeduring gait activities (walking, running, jumping).

In the example of a device to apply a load under motion across the knee,configured to train quadriceps, the device imposes resistance toextension of the lower leg at the knee joint and throughout the angularrange of motion for the knee. During flexion (movement in the returndirection) the device may be passive without providing any resistance tomovement. Alternatively, in a bidirectional device, the device imposesresistance throughout both extension and flexion in this example totrain both the quadriceps and the hamstring muscles. The resistance toflexion and extension may be equal, or may be dissimilar, depending uponthe objective of the exercise.

The devices in accordance with the present invention may be providedwith a user adjustable load or resistance, or modularity such that aresistance module having a first level of resistance can be removed andreplaced by a second module having a second, different level ofresistance.

In one implementation of the invention, the device provides passiveresistance to motion throughout an angular range. At any stationarypoint within the range, the device imposes no bias. Rather the devicemerely resists movement in either one or both of flexion and extension.In contrast, an elastic resistance device imparts bias at any time it isdeflected from neutral, whether moving or at a stop, and in only onedirection.

In one mode of operation, the device is worn over an extended period oftime wherein the activities of the wearer are dominantly aerobic asdistinguished from anaerobic (i.e. dominantly non-anaerobic). Theinvention may be practiced where some of the activities are of ananaerobic nature, depending upon the training objective of the wearer.The extended period of time could be as short as one hour or less but ispreferably at least two hours and sometimes at least eight hours,although it could also be at least about four hours or six hours ormore. That may include at least about 1,500 or 2,000 step cycles or5,000 step cycles or more.

The present invention is intended primarily for use to build tone orstrength under conditions which favor aerobic metabolism, which will asa necessary consequence be accompanied by an elevated consumption ofbody fat. Thus the present invention may also comprise methods ofachieving weight loss, by wearing one or two or more passive resistancedevices for an extended period of time (disclosed elsewhere herein) eachday for at least two or three or four or five or more days per week. Thepresent invention also contemplates methods of reducing percent body fatvia the same method steps.

Yet other embodiments of the present invention include biometric sensorsand electronic data storage and/or wireless data export capabilities toa remote receiver such as a smartphone, activity logger, or otherwireless device. In some embodiments, the sensors detect electricalsignals which are related to the load being transmitted by the forcemodifying apparatus (e.g., force sensors, electromyography, etc.), theangular position of the upper leg attachment relative to the lower legattachment, and/or the angular velocity of the upper leg attachmentrelative to the lower leg attachment, step cycles, range of motion,temperature, pulse or other data of interest.

The angular range of motion permitted by the dynamic joint 54 may be atleast about 145°, or at least about 180° or more for the hip. Typically,a working angular range of motion for a hip device will be plus or minusabout 45 or 55° from standing straight up, for normal walkingactivities, although flexion at the hip through an angle of at leastabout 90 degrees is necessary to enable sitting. A larger total range ofat least about 180 degrees or 200 degrees or more may be desirable toenable stretching or other larger range activities. The dynamic joint atthe knee preferably allows flexion of at least about 90 degrees, andpreferably at least about 120 degrees or 140 degrees or more. Some ofthe dampers disclosed herein have a range of essentially 360 degrees ormore, although that range is unnecessary for most of the constructsdisclosed herein.

A bi-directional exercise device provides resistance to movement in boththe flexion and extension directions. However, the level of resistancemay differ. For example, in a normal knee, the ratio of the naturalstrength of a hamstring to a quadricep is roughly 1:3. A balancedpassive resistance device may therefore impose 1 lb. of resistance onflexion for every 3 lbs. of resistance on extension. However, forcertain athletic competitions or other objectives, the wearer may desireto alter the basic strength ratio of the unexercised hamstring toquadricep. So for example, the passive exercise device 20 may beprovided with a ratio of a 2 lb. resistance on flexion for every 3 lb.resistance on extension or other ratio as may be desired depending uponthe intended result.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, whether mechanical braces,fabric garments or hybrids, the resistance to movement will berelatively low compared to conventional weight training in view of theintended use of the apparatus for hours at a time. Anaerobic metabolismmay be elevated by repetitively placing a minor load on routine movementover an extended period. The load will generally be higher than loadsplaced by normal clothing and technical wear, and preselected to workparticular muscle groups. Preferably, the resistance elements may beadjusted or interchanged with other elements having a differentresistance, or additive so that adding multiple resistance elements canincrease the net resistance in a particular resistance zone.

The specific levels of resistance will vary depending upon the targetedmuscle group, and typically also between flexion and extension acrossthe same muscle group. Also wearer to wearer customization can beaccomplished, to accommodate different training objectives. In general,resistances of at least about 0.5, and often at least about 1 or 2 or 3or more foot-pounds will be used in strength building applications onboth flexion and extension. Devices specifically configured forrehabilitation following injury (traumatic injury or surgical procedure)may have lower threshold values as desired.

The resistance to extension might be at least about 130%, sometimes atleast about 150% and in some embodiments at least about 200% of theresistance to the corresponding flexion.

Toning garments intended for long term wear may have lower resistance,with extension normally equal to or greater than flexion. Torqueprovided by a resistance element intended for the hip for toninggarments may be at least about 1 in-lbs, sometimes at least about 2 or 3or 5 or more in-lbs. depending upon the desired result, measured on adynamometer at 30 RPM at STP ambient conditions. Torque will typicallybe less than about 12 in-lbs., and often less than about 12 or 8 in-lbs.In some implementations, torque will be within the range of from about1-4 in-lbs for a ‘light’ toning element; within the range of from about3-6 in-lbs for a ‘medium’ toning element; and within the range of fromabout 5-10 in-lbs for a ‘heavy’ toning element. Dampers which are notcapable of complete rotation may need to be measured by evaluatingtorque during reciprocal (pendulum) motion and converted to a full RPMequivalent.

The resistance garment may impart any of a variety of resistanceprofiles, as a function of angular displacement of the joint. Forexample, FIG. 1 schematically and qualitatively illustrates the unitssuch as foot pounds (easily expressed as inch pounds or various otherconventions known in the art) of resistance to movement in either orboth an extension or flexion direction, as a function of the angulardeviation of the joint at a constant speed across a dynamic motionrange. In this illustration, an angle of zero may represent a joint suchas a knee in a “start” or straight or other reference configuration,while the midpoint of the range of motion is half way through the rangeof motion of the target join or motion segment to the forward orrearward limit. Standing straight up, the femur can be considered to beat approximately half way through its anterior-posterior plane range ofmotion. The maximum range of motion is the maximum normal range for thetarget joint.

Referring to plot 60, there is illustrated an example in which theresistance to movement is constant throughout the angular range ofmotion, as a function of angle. Thus, at whatever point the distalextremity may be throughout the angular range of motion with respect tothe proximal anatomy, incremental motion encounters the same resistanceas it would at any other point throughout the angular range of motion(measured at the same speed in the case of certain dampers). Theresistance provided is thus not a function of angular displacement. Insome implementations, the resistance may be a function of angularvelocity. But if motion stops, the resistance stops and there is no netbias or force applied by the device against the distal extremity unlessan elastic element is also added to the garment.

Alternatively, referring to plot 62, there is illustrated the forcecurve relating to a dynamic joint in the garment in which the resistanceto motion is greatest at the beginning of deviation from a startingpoint, and the resistance to motion falls off to a minimum as the distalextremity reaches the limit of its angular range.

Referring to plot 64, the garment imposes the least resistance at thebeginning of bending the limb from the starting point, and the forceopposing motion increases as a function of angular deviation throughoutthe range of motion. This may be utilized, for example, to emphasizebuilding strength on the back half or back portion of an angular rangeof motion.

As a further alternative, referring to plot 66, the garment may beconfigured to produce the most strength at the end points of the rangeof motion, while deemphasizing a central portion of the range of motion.Although not illustrated, the inverse of the plot 66 may additionally beprovided, such that the end points in either direction of the angularrange of motion across a joint are deemphasized, and strength throughoutthe middle portion of the range of motion is emphasized.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, any of a variety ofresistance profiles may be readily constructed, depending upon thedesired objective of the training for a particular athlete orrehabilitation protocol. In some implementations (e.g., viscous rotarydampers) the resistance varies as a function of velocity, so that thefaster the wearer seeks to move through a given range of motion, theproportionally higher the responsive resistance. Resistance remainsconstant in response to constant velocity motion. This performanceprofile in essence allows the wearer to customize the resistance level,in response to effort, and may be desirable in the medicalrehabilitation markets as well as the related markets of toning andtraining.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a qualitative relationshipbetween a constant and an elastic resistive force, throughout a range of(constant velocity in the case of a rotary damper) motion. The constantforce line 80 remains essentially unchanged as a function of angulardisplacement from any starting point. So the work required to move inopposition to the resistance is at its predetermined value 82 startingat the beginning of any movement within the range, throughout both anearly cycle 90 and a late cycle 92.

In contrast, extension (or flexion) throughout an angular range againstan elastic resistive force encounters a variable resistance which startslow and increases as a function of the angle of displacement. Thiselastic resistive force is represented by line 84. Throughout an earlycycle 90, resistance may be less than the predetermined value 82 untilthe elastic has been sufficiently loaded that the elastic resistancecurve 84 crosses the predetermined value 82 of the constant resistanceline 80 at a transition 88. Only angular displacement within the latecycle 92 encounters resistance at or above the predetermined value 82.

The angle zero can be any reference point throughout the walking cycle,such as standing straight up, or with the leg at the most posterior partof the stride, wherever the elastic has been designed to provide neutral(zero) bias. The shaded area 86 represents work that would beaccomplished under the constant resistance device, but would not beaccomplished during the early cycle 90 for the elastic device as theelastic is loading and resistance is climbing. Thus the constantresistance device forces work throughout the angular range, while neverexceeding a predetermined maximum resistance force, but the elastic mayprovide inadequate resistance throughout the early cycle 90. This isimportant because strength is best developed throughout the range ofmotion that is actually exercised under load, so elastic mechanisms mayinadequately load the muscles in the early cycle 90. The shaded area 86thus represents the inefficiency in an elastic resistance systemcompared to a constant resistance system.

Early cycle loading in an elastic model can be elevated bypre-tensioning the elastic so that at angle zero the resistance isalready up to the reference value 82. But the device now has lost itsneutral bias resting position and at all angles throughout the cycle thewearer will be fighting a bias which may be undesirable. In addition,pre-tensioning the elastic will also elevate resistance throughout thelate cycle 92 potentially above what the wearer can tolerate or at leastsufficiently that the wearer will simply shorten their stride or makeother accommodations to avoid the resistance spike. Thus maintainingresistance within a range of at least a threshold minimum and a maximumthroughout the angular range of motion is preferred. The maximum willgenerally be less than about 3×, generally less than about 2× theminimum, and in different settings no more than about 80%, 50%, 25%, 10%or 5% or 2% greater than the minimum. In general, substantially constantresistance means plus or minus no more than about 10% from the averageresistance throughout the working range.

Referring to FIG. 3, the performance of a hybrid garment is illustrated,in which both a passive resistance component and an elastic componentare present so that the wearer experiences a force profile that is thesum of the passive and elastic components. This might be accomplished bysecuring one or more springs such as leaf springs, coil springs or otherspring elements (spring wire such as stainless steel, NiTinol or otherelastic metals, rubber bands or other elastic polymers or fabrics knownin the art) in parallel with the passive resistive element. Bendingacross the joint is thus opposed by the passive resistance component aswell as resisted or supported by the spring or elastic componentdepending upon the orientation of the elastic component relative to theflexion or extension direction.

Thus the net force curve on, for example, extension is illustrated as 94and represents the sum of the resistance from the passive and elasticcomponents assuming the elastic component is configured to be fullyrelaxed at the reference angle zero. However, under flexion, the elasticcomponent assists flexion in opposition to the resistance from thepassive component, producing a curve more like 96 in which resistance toflexion climbs as the angular deviation returns to the reference point.Hybrid elastic/passive configurations can be used where a differentresistance profile is desired for flexion compared to extension across aparticular motion segment.

In any of the foregoing embodiments, it may be desirable to provide arelease which disengages the resistance to movement upon an abruptincrease in force from the wearer. The release may be in the form of areleasable detent or interference joint which can be opened by elasticdeformation under force above a preset threshold which is set abovenormally anticipated forces in normal use. If a wearer should stumble,the reflexive movement to regain balance will activate the release andeliminate resistance to further movement, as a safety feature.

At least a right and a left safety release may be provided, to releasethe resistance from the right and left resistance elements in responseto a sudden spike in force applied by the wearer such as might occur ifthe wearer were to try to recover from missing a step or tripping. Therelease may be configured in a variety of ways depending upon theunderlying device design. For example, in a solid flexible rodresistance element, a short section of rod may be constructed of adifferent material which would snap under a sudden load spike. Thatresistance element would be disposed and replaced once the release hasbeen actuated. Alternatively, a male component on a first section of theresistance element can be snap fit with a female component on a secondsection of the resistance element, such that the two components becomereversibly disengaged from each other upon application of a sudden forceabove the predetermined safety threshold. Two components can bepivotable connected to each other along the length of the resistanceelement, but with a coefficient of static friction such that movement ofthe pivot is only permitted in response to loads above the predeterminedthreshold. Alternatively, one or more of the belt connectors orcorresponding inferior connectors can be releasably secured with respectto the wearer. Any of a variety of interference fit attachmentstructures or hook and loop fasteners can be optimized to reversiblyrelease upon application of the threshold pressure. In more complexsystems or systems configured for relatively high resistance such as forheavy athletic training, more sophisticated release mechanisms may beconfigured such as those used in conventional ski bindings and wellunderstood in the art.

Referring to FIG. 4, there is illustrated a front elevational view of agarment in the form of a pant or full body suit 220, incorporatingresistance elements in accordance with the present invention. Althoughillustrated as a full body suit, the garment may be in the form of pantsor shorts alone, from the waist down, or an upper body garment similarto a shirt. In general, the body suit is provided with one or moreresistance elements spanning a joint of interest, as has been discussedherein. The resistance element may be any of the devices disclosedelsewhere herein, either removably or permanently attached to the fabricof the garment. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a pluralityof sleeves 194 extend distally from the waist 222 down to the ankle 224for permanently or removably receiving corresponding resistance elementstherein.

Preferably, the resistance elements may be removably carried by thegarment, such as via an opening 226 illustrated at the superior end ofsleeve 194, thereby enabling customization of the resistance level bythe wearer. One example is shown in FIG. 5A, in which a segmented ormalleable metal rod 196 os removably positioned within sleeve 194. Inaddition, the resistance elements may preferably be removed forlaundering the garment, and for taking the garment on and off. Thegarment can more easily be positioned on the body without the resistanceelements, and the resistance elements may be introduced into the sleeve194 or other receiving structure thereafter.

In addition, or as an alternative to the resistance elements disclosedpreviously herein, the garment may be provided with one or more elasticpanels positioned and oriented to resist movement in a preselecteddirection. For example, an elastic panel having an axis of elongation inthe inferior superior direction, and positioned behind the knee, canprovide resistance to extension of the knee. Alternatively, a stretchpanel on the front or anterior surface of the leg, spanning the knee,can bias the knee in the direction of extension and resist flexion.Panels 228 and 230 illustrated in FIG. 4 can be configured to stretchupon flexion of the knee thereby biasing the garment in the direction ofextension. Resistance to flexion or extension or other movement of anyother joint or motion segment in the body can be provided, by orientingone or more stretch panels of fabric in a similar fashion. In a passiveresistance garment, the panels may comprise a plurality of wires orstrands attached to or woven or braided into the fabric, as discussedbelow.

Any of a variety of fabrics may be utilized to form the garment,preferably materials which are highly breathable thereby allowing heatand moisture to escape, and having sufficient structural integrity totransfer force between the body and the resistance elements. The fabriccan be compression or other elastic fabric, or an inelastic materialwith elastic panels in position to load specific muscle groups, or metalor metal-nonmetal hybrids depending upon the desired performance.

Three functionally distinct fabrics are discussed below. In one, thefabric is the resistance element. This fabric may include strands of amalleable material such as a metal or polymer, which resist bending. Theresistive fabric will be oriented such that the malleable strands extendacross the motion segment such that motion of the body at the segmentwill bend the malleable strands. A second type of fabric describedherein may be utilized for constructing the underlying garment. A thirdtype of fabric may be a force transfer fabric, such as for transferringor dissipating force from a lever arm to a relatively more highlystretchable fabric such as the base fabric for a compression pant.Selection of particular weaves, polymers, or other variables discussedbelow can be accomplished by those of skill in the art, taking intoaccount the role that the fabric will play in the finished garment.

The woven resistance fabric of the present invention may comprise any ofa variety of weaves typically between at least a first support filamentand at least a second resistance filament. For example, the resistancefabric may comprise weaves such as plain weaves, basket weaves, rep orrib weaves, twill weaves (e.g., straight twill, reverse twill,herringbone twill), satin weaves, and double weaves (e.g., double-width,tubular double weave, reversed double weave). In general, the weave is aconvenient structure for supporting a plurality of resistance impartingstrands in a manner that can be made into or supported by a garment likestructure that can be carried by a wearer's body. Nonwoven constructscan also be utilized, such as by securing a plurality of nonwoven (e.g.,parallel) resistance strands (e.g., metal wire strands) to each other orto a supporting fabric base. Securing may be accomplished by dipcoating, spray coating or otherwise coating or embedding the resistancestrands with a flexible adhesive or other polymer, or weaving orbraiding, to produce a flexible resistance band or sheet.

The term “strand” as used herein is a generic term for an elongate, thinflexible element suitable for weaving. For example, strands may include,but are not limited to monofilaments, filaments twisted together, fibersspun together or otherwise joined, yarns, roving yarns, crepe yarns, plyyarns, cord yarns, threads, strings, filaments laid together withouttwist, single strand or multi strand wire as well as otherconfigurations. Strand includes elements sometimes referred to herein asrods, such that for example a 0.125 inch diameter copper rod is arelatively thick strand. Strand diameters will generally be at leastabout 0.018 inches, at least about 0.025 inches, at least about 0.040inches, at least about 0.050 inches or at least about 0.10 inches ormore, depending upon the construction and desired performance. Forstrands that are not circular in cross sections, the foregoing valuescan readily be converted to cross sectional areas as is understood inthe art. Unless otherwise specified, references herein to stranddiameters or cross sectional areas along the length of a strand or of agroup of strands refers to an average value for the correspondingdiameters or cross sectional areas.

A woven resistance fabric embodiment generally comprise at least a firstand second sets of relatively straight strands, the warp and the weft,which cross and interweave to form a fabric. Typically, the warp andweft yarn cross at approximately a right angle as woven, but may crossat any angle such as at least about 45, 65, 75 or 85 degrees. Alsotypically, fabric is woven to have a given width, but may have anydesired length. The warp yarn runs in the length direction of thefabric, which is generally the longer dimension thereof, and the weftyarn runs in the crosswise or width direction thereof, which isgenerally the shorter dimension. It may be convenient to weave passiveresistance fabric such that the warp strand is a metal such as copperand the weft is a conventional athletic fabric material. The pants orbody suit or resistance strips would be cut with the long axis of theresistance strands primarily running in an inferior-superior directionin the example of a pant, and the non-resistance strands run in acircumferential direction relative to the leg. A textile and/or fabricmay be woven in a single-layer weave and/or in a plural-layer weave. Itis noted that textiles and/or fabrics having two or more layers, i.e.plural layers, are commonly and generally referred to as multilayerweaves. Certain weaves may be referred to specifically, e.g., atwo-layer woven fabric may be referred to as a double weave. Forexample, an inner liner may be provided for comfort, to separate thewearer from the resistance layer.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a first warp or weft fibersmay be aesthetic fibers that are selected for their aesthetic appeal(e.g., color, texture, ability to receive dye, drapeability, etc.).Examples of such fibers may include natural fibers, cotton, wool, rayon,polyamid fibers, modeacrylic fibers, high modulus fibers, Kevlar®fibers, Nomex® fibers, and other fibers formulated to produce or exhibitaesthetic characteristics.

A second warp or weft fibers may be performance fibers that are selectedfor their strength or protective properties (e.g., cut, abrasion,ballistic, and/or fire resistance characteristics, etc.). Examples ofperformance fibers include high molecular weight polyethylene, aramid,carbon fiber, Kevlar® fibers, Nomex® fibers, fiberglass, and otherfibers formulated to produce or exhibit performance characteristics.Many performance fibers are not aesthetically desirable (e.g., don'treceive dyes or colors well, etc.); however, by structuring a fabric inaccordance with various embodiments of the present invention,traditional aesthetic problems associated with such fibers may have asignificantly reduced effect given that such fibers are generally hiddenfrom view.

A third warp or weft fibers may be comfort fibers that are selected fortheir comfort-providing qualities (e.g., softness against a wearer'sskin, cooling properties, etc.). Examples of comfort fibers includecellulosic fibers such as cotton, rayon, wool, microfiber polyester,nylon, and other fibers formulated to produce or exhibit comfortcharacteristics.

In addition, the fibers that will extend around the leg and transverseto the metal fibers may be stretchable fibers that are selected toprovide flexibility to the fabric to allow the fabric to have a betterfit on the wearer and to allow the wearer more unrestricted movementwhile wearing the fabric. Examples of stretchable fibers include Lycra®fibers, Spandex® fibers, composite fibers that include Lycra® orSpandex® fibers, Kevlar® fibers, high modulus polyethylene, wool, rayon,nylon, modeacrylic fibers, and other fibers formulated to exhibitstretch characteristics.

Materials used for the shape memory element strands need only bebiocompatible or able to be made biocompatible. Suitable materials forthe shape memory element strands include shape memory metals and shapememory polymers. Suitable shape memory metals include, for example, TiNi(Nitinol), CuZnAl, and FeNiAl alloys. Particularly preferred are“superelastic” metal alloys. Superelasticity refers to a shape memorymetal alloy's ability to spring back to its austenitic form from astress-induced martensite at temperatures above austenite finishtemperature. The austenite finish temperature refers to the temperatureat which the transformation of a shape memory metal from the martensiticphase to the austenitic phase completes.

For example, martensite in a Nitinol alloy may be stress induced ifstress is applied at a temperature above the Nitinol alloy's austenitestart temperature. Since austenite is the stable phase at temperaturesabove austenite finish temperature under no-load conditions, thematerial springs back to its original shape when the stress is removed.This extraordinary elasticity is called superelasticity. In one example,Nitinol wire may be in the superelastic condition where the wire hasbeen cold worked at least 40% and given an aging heat treatment atapproximately 500 degrees Celsius for at least 10 minutes. The Nitinolwire is in its fully superelastic condition where the use temperature isgreater than the austenite finish temperature of the Nitinol wire.

The term “elastic” is used to describe any component that is capable ofsubstantial elastic deformation, which results in a bias to return toits non-deformed or neutral state. It should be understood that the term“elastic” includes but is not intended to be limited to a particularclass of elastic materials. In some cases, one or more elastic portionscan be made of an elastomeric material including, but not limited to:natural rubber, synthetic polyisoprene, butyl rubber, halogenated butylrubbers, polybutadiene, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber,hydrogenated nitrile rubbers, chloroprene rubber (such aspolychloroprene, neoprene and bayprene), ethylene propylene rubber(EPM), ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), epichlorohydrin rubber(ECO), polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber(FVMQ), fluoroelastomers (such as Viton, Tecnoflon, Fluorel, Aflas andDai-EI), perfluoroelastomers (such as Tecnoflon PFR, Kalrez, Chemraz,Perlast), polyether block amides (PEBA), chlorosulfonated polyethylene(CSM), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), various types of thermoplasticelastomers (TPE), for example Elastron, as well as any other type ofmaterial with substantial elastic properties. In other cases, an elasticportion could be made of another type of material that is capable ofelastic deformation or composite weaves of elastic and inelastic fibersor threads. In one exemplary embodiment, each elastic portion mayinclude neoprene potentially augmented by a secondary elastic componentsuch as sheets or strips of a latex or other rubber depending upon thedesired elastic force and dynamic range of stretch.

Another fabric with a high modulus of elasticity is elastane, which isknown in the art of compression fabrics and may be used for constructionof the underlying garment. The material may be a polyester/elastanefabric with moisture-wicking properties. For example, the fabric maycomprise 5 oz/yd.sup.2 micro-denier polyester/elastane warp knit tricotfabric that will wick moisture from the body and include 76% 40 denierdull polyester and 24% 55 denier spandex knit. The high elastane contentallows for proper stretch and support. The fabric may be a tricotconstruction at a 60″ width. The mean warp stretch may be 187% at 10 lbsof load, and the mean width stretch may be 90% at 10 lbs of load. Thisfabric also may have a wicking finish applied to it. Such a fabric isavailable from UNDER ARMOUR™ Although the foregoing fabric is given asan example, it will be appreciated that any of a variety of other fabricor other materials known in the art may be used to construct the garment100, including compression fabrics and non-compression fabrics. Examplesof such fabrics include, but are not limited to, knit, woven andnon-woven fabrics comprised of nylon, polyester, cotton, elastane, anyof the materials identified above and blends thereof. Any of theforegoing can be augmented with mechanical resistance elements, such asbendable rods, springs and others disclosed herein.

The resistance fabric can be characterized by the total cross sectionalarea of metal per unit length of fabric, measured transverse to thedirection of the metal strands. For example, a plain weave havingparallel metal strands each having a diameter of 0.020 inches, eachadjacent strands separated by 0.020 inches, will have a metal density of25 strands per inch. The sum of the cross sections of the 25 strands isapproximately 0.008 square inches.

The optimal metal density will depend upon garment design, such aswhether the entire circumference of a leg is surrounded by hybridfabric, or only discrete panels will include the hybrid fiber, thepresence of any supplemental resistance elements, and the desiredresistance provided by a given motion segment on the garment. Ingeneral, the metal density will be at least about 0.010 square inches ofmetal per running inch of fabric, and may be at least about 0.020, atleast about 0.030 and in some implementations at least about 0.040square inches of metal per inch. Most fabrics will have within the rangeof from about 0.020 and about 0.060 square inches of metal per inch offabric, and often within the range of from about 0.025 and about 0.045square inches per inch of fabric.

Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, there is illustrated a side opening pantembodiment of the present invention which can support either resistancefabric, resistance rods or both types of resistance element, or a rotaryresistance unit as discussed elsewhere herein. The pant 100 comprises awaist 102 which may be opened or closed or tightened by a fastener 104.Fastener 104 may be any of a variety of preferably low profile andcomfortable adjustable fasteners such as Velcro or a belt buckle.

A right leg 106 comprises a lateral resistance panel 108 and a medialside opening 110. The resistance panel runs from the waist to the ankleand may be made from or support a resistance fabric and or resistancestrands. The resistance panel may have an average width measured in thecircumferential direction around the leg of no more than about 2″,sometimes no more than about 4″ and often no more than about 6″ or 8″ sothat it does not wrap all the way around the leg. Typically, theresistance panel will be oriented to run along the lateral side of theleg, although additional resistance panels may run along the medialside, the posterior or anterior or any one or combination of theforegoing, depending upon the desired performance.

The resistance panel may be constructed from a resistance fabric, or mayhave one or more panels of resistance fabric carried thereon, or carry arotary damper or other resistance element disclosed herein. Theresistance panels may also or alternatively be provided with at leastone or two or three or four or more attachment structures or guides suchas sleeve 109, for receiving a resistance element such as a malleablerod or damper lever arm or other resistance element disclosed elsewhereherein. The sleeve may have a closed inferior end and an open oropenable superior end, to removably receive the resistance elementtherein, so that the wearer can customize the resistance level asdesired such as by exchanging resistance elements.

In the illustrated embodiment, the right resistance panel 108 issecurely held against the leg by a plurality of straps 112 which extendacross the opening 110. Each strap has a first end which is preferablypermanently secured to the resistance panel 108 or to a base garment inan embodiment having a removable resistance panel. A second end may bereleasably secured to the garment or resistance panel such as by Velcroor other releasable fastener. The left and right legs of all embodimentsherein are preferably bilaterally symmetrical.

The straps 112 preferably comprise a stretch fabric such as a weave withelastic fibers at least running in the longitudinal direction. One ortwo or three or more straps 112 may be provided both above and below theknee, to securely hold the resistance panel in place. Straps 112 may beoriented perpendicular to the long axis of the leg, or an angle asillustrated to provide a criss cross configuration.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a resistance garment (or a structuralsubassembly that is attachable to a compression or other garment) isshown having a waist or belt 250 and left and right resistance panels260 and 261. In this implementation, the resistance panels may have anaverage width of no more than about 8 inches, no more than about 6inches, no more than about 4 inches, no more than about 2 inches, or nomore than about 1 inch depending upon whether resistance is generated bya fabric or other resistance element.

The left resistance panel is associated with at least a first strap 280and as illustrated also a second strap 282 which are secured to thewaist and or the resistance panel 260. As shown in FIG. 7, the firststrap is wrapped helically around the leg and secured to the ankle byattachment to itself, or to the left resistance panel 260 or to an anklestrap 284 that may be provided at the inferior end of the resistancepanel 260. The second strap 282 may then be wrapped helically around theleg in the opposite direction and secured to the ankle. At each of thecrossing points between the straps 280 and 282 and the resistance panel260 complementary Velcro panels align and create attachment points.Preferably the straps comprise stretch fabric to hold the resistancepanel snugly in place yet accommodate moving musculature. The garmentcan be shortened, so that the straps 284 are positioned above the kneein a pair of shorts or full length pants designed to only applyresistance at the hip.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, there is illustrated a toning garment 300having a right leg 302 and a left leg 304. At least one resistanceelements 306 is provided on each of the left leg 304 and right leg 302.In the illustrated embodiment, a single resistance element 306 isprovided on each of the right and left legs, extending in aninferior-superior orientation on a lateral side of the leg, and spanningboth the hip and knee. Resistance elements 306 may be provided on thelateral sides, the medial sides, or the lateral and medial sides of theleg. In this orientation, the bending of the resistance elements 306 isprimarily in the anterior-posterior plane (in shear for a flatresistance element 306). The resistance element may comprise a rotarydevice such as a rotary damper 458 (FIG. 9B) aligned with an axis ofrotation of the desired joint.

Alternatively, resistance elements 306 may be provided on the anterioror posterior or both aspects of the garment 300. Normal anatomicalmotion at the hip and knee would cause anterior or posterior resistanceelements 306 to bend out of plane, and also to accommodate axialelongation and compression during the normal walking cycle. Thus,internal construction of anterior or posterior surface resistanceelements 306 may be different than that utilized on a lateral or medialorientation, the latter not necessarily needing to accommodate axialexpansion or contraction except to the extent desirable to compensatefor rotational axis misalignment, discussed below.

Preferably, resistance elements 306 are removably secured to the garment300. Referring to FIG. 10, removable attachment may be accomplished byproviding a posterior attachment structure 308 secured to the right leg302 and an anterior attachment structure 310 secured at an anteriororientation on the right leg 302. As with elsewhere herein, the devicesof the present invention are preferably bilaterally symmetrical and onlyone side will generally be described in detail with the understandingthat the other side will have a symmetrical configuration.

Each of the posterior attachment structure 308 and anterior attachmentstructure 310 are preferably attachment structures that permit secureattachment and removal of the resistance elements 306 to the garment300. Referring to FIG. 10A, one exemplary attachment structure 308 is azipper. A first plurality of teeth 314 may be secured along the lengthof the resistance elements 306 such as by stitching, adhesives, or othertechnique. First plurality of teeth 314 are configured to interdigitateor engage with a second plurality of teeth 316 secured along an edgewhich is attached to the toning garment 300. A slider 318 may beadvanced up and down the inferior posterior direction, zipping andunzipping the resistance element 306 to the right leg 302.

Schematically illustrated in the resistance element 306 of FIG. 10A is aplurality of malleable strands 320, such as may be present in a wirefabric weave. However, any of the resistance elements described in thepresent application may be configured for interchangeable replacementwith the resistance elements 306, such as variations of the pivotableresistance unit 458 discussed in connection with FIG. 13 and beyond.Thus, the user of the toning garment 300 may select a resistance elementout of an array of resistance elements, and releasably secure theresistance elements 306 to the garment 300. After a period of time, theresistance elements 306 may be removed from the toning garment 300 andreplaced by a resistance element 306 having a different resistancecharacteristic. Alternatively, the resistance elements 306 may beremoved and replaced by a resistance element having an identicalresistance characteristic, such as following the useful life of thefirst resistance element.

A plurality of interchangeable resistance elements having differentstructures can be provided, such as metal wire, metal weaves, segmentedresistance elements, pivotable resistance elements, open cell or closedcell foam, elastomeric materials such as silicone, latex or variousblends of rubber, resistance elements having pulleys and wires, can beconfigured having an interchangeable mounting system and dimensions sothat they may be interchanged on a single toning garment 300.

An alternative attachment structure comprises an elongate press fitattachment, that extends in the inferior superior axis, typically alongthe edges of the resistance elements 306. Referring to FIG. 11, one ofthe resistance elements 306 and corresponding locations on the garment300 is provided with an elongate elastically deformable channel 322. Thecorresponding or complementary surface structure on the other of theresistance elements 306 or the garment 300 is an elongate bead 324. Theelongate bead may be press fit into the elongate channel, like a ziplock fastener, to secure the resistance elements 306 in place. Pressfitting the fastener to releasably retain the resistance elements 306 onthe garment 300 may be accomplished by manual pressure, such as byrunning a finger along the length of the attachment structure.

Alternatively, such as is illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 12A, a press fitembodiment may be secured and unsecured using a slider 318, typicallyhaving a pull tab 330. The implementation of the press fit fastenershown in FIGS. 12 and 12A provide a more robust connection between theresistance element 306 and garment 300. This may be desirable forimplementations of the invention having relatively high resistance tomovement, which will place greater tension on the attachment structure.

Referring to FIG. 12A, a first projection 332 attached directly orindirectly to the resistance element 306 or garment 300 it is removablereceived within a first recess 334 attached to the other of theresistance element 306 and garment 300. A second projection 336 isreceived within a second recess 338. A first pair of complementaryengagement surfaces 340 is provided to create an interference fit withinthe first recess 334, and a second pair of complementary engagementsurfaces 342 provide an interference fit within the second recess 338.This configuration can withstand a relatively high shear force such asmight be experienced under tension, while at the same time enabling arelatively low release force such as by deformation of the pairs ofcomplementary engagement surfaces as will be understood to those ofskill in the art.

Referring to FIG. 13, there is illustrated a further toning garment 450in accordance with the present invention. The toning garment 450includes a right leg 452, a left leg 454, and a waist 456. As for allgarments disclosed herein, the toning garment 450 will preferably bebilaterally symmetrical. Accordingly, only a single side will bediscussed in detail herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the right leg 452 is provided with a hipresistance unit 458. Right leg 452 is additionally provided with a kneeresistance unit 460. Each leg of the toning garment 450 may be providedwith either the hip resistance unit 458 or the knee resistance unit 460,with or without the other. The left and right hip resistance units willpreferably have an axis of rotation that is functionally aligned with atransverse axis of rotation which extends through the wearer's left andright hip axes of rotation. See, e.g., FIG. 28. Functional alignmentincludes precise alignment however due to the different fit that will beachieved from wearer to wearer, precise alignment may not always occur.Due to the stretchability of the garment, minor misalignment may selfcorrect or not present adverse performance. Similarly, the kneeresistance units, if present, will preferably have an axis of rotationthat is functionally aligned with the transverse axis of rotation thatextends through the center of rotation of each knee. Compensation formisalignment is discussed below.

Referring to FIG. 14, the hip resistance unit 458 will be described infurther detail. The left leg hip resistance unit, and both the right andleft leg knee resistance unit 460 may be constructed in a similarmanner.

The hip resistance unit 458 is provided with a first attachment such asa first lever 462, and a second attachment such as a second lever 464connected by a pivotable connection 466. The pivotable connection 466comprises a resistance element 468 which provides resistance to angularmovement between a primary longitudinal axis of first lever 462 and aprimary longitudinal axis of second lever 464. In the as wornorientation, the axis of rotation 470 is preferably substantiallyaligned with an axis of rotation of the joint with which the resistanceelement is associated.

A lever as used herein refers to a structure that mechanically links ahousing or rotatable component of a resistance unit to a portion of thegarment or wearer at or above or below the resistance unit, so thatmovement of the wearer is resisted by the resistance unit withoutundesirable stretching of the garment. The lever may take a conventionalform, as illustrated in FIG. 14, and comprise an elongate element havinga length generally at least about 2 inches, in some embodiments at leastabout 4 or 6 or 8 inches to provide better leverage and attachment forcedistribution. The element may a have a width of at least about 0.25inches, and in some embodiments at least about 0.5 inches or 1.0 inchesor 2 inches or more but normally less than about 3 inches or 2.5 inches.The thickness may be less than about 0.25 inches, preferably less thanabout 0.125 inches and in some embodiments less than about 0.050 inches.The lever may comprise any of a variety of washable, non-corrosivematerials such as nylon, Teflon, polyethylene, PEBAX, PEEK or othersknown in the art. Preferably the lever arm is sufficient to transmitforce in the anterior-posterior direction in the case of hip and kneeresistance units, but is flexible in the medial-lateral direction toenable the garment to follow the contours of the body. See, e.g., FIG.28.

The inferior and superior lever arms may be similar to each other for aresistance unit mounted at the knee. For a resistance unit mounted atthe hip, the lever arms may be distinct. For example, the inferior leverarm at the hip may conveniently comprise an elongated femoral lever,such as that illustrated in FIG. 13 or 27, in which the axial length ofthe lever is at least about two times, and may be at least about fivetimes or eight times its width. This lever arm can extend down thelateral side of the leg, secured by the garment approximately parallelto the femur.

The superior lever arm may have a vertical component towards the waist,with a bend so that a superior component extends in a transversedirection, either partially or completely circumferentially around thewaist of the wearer. Alternatively, the superior lever arm may comprisea fabric or plastic force transfer patch, such as a circular, square,rectangular, oval or other shape which can be secured to the rotationaldamper or a docking station for receiving the rotational damper, andalso secured to the garment in a manner that resists rotation of thedamper with respect to the garment during movement of the inferiorlever. Thus, “lever” as used herein is a force transfer structure and isnot limited to the species of a conventional elongate arm.

The lever may alternatively comprise a hub for attachment to theresistance unit, and a plurality of two or three or four or moreelements that are secured such as by stitching or adhesive bonding tothe garment. See FIG. 20 in which a hub 480 supports at least ananterior element 482, a medial element 484 and a posterior element 486.Each of the elements is preferably relatively inflexible in theanterior-posterior direction, but flexible in the medial-lateraldirection to enable the anterior element 482 to wrap at least partiallyaround the side and optionally around the front of the leg. Theposterior element 486 preferably wraps at least partially around theposterior side of the leg. The lever elements can be configured as asystem of straps similar to the straps 280 and 282 (FIG. 7). Theelements can comprise one or more strands or technical fabric supports,sufficient to transmit the forces involved in a given garment andresistance unit system.

The hip resistance unit 458 may be secured to the toning garment 450 inany of a variety of ways. Referring to FIGS. 14 and 17, the first lever462 is provided with at least a first set of apertures 463 andoptionally a second set of apertures 465 to receive a filament such as apolymeric or fabric thread, for sewing the hip resistance unit 458 tothe garment. Stitching may alternatively be accomplished by piercing thefirst lever 462 directly with the sewing needle, without the need forapertures 463 or 465. Alternatively, the first lever 462 can be securedto the garment using any of a variety of fastening techniques, such asadhesive bonding, grommets or others known in the art.

A lever is convenient for the inferior attachment, to distribute forcealong a portion of the length of the femur. The longitudinal axis of thefirst, superior attachment at the hip may be transverse to thelongitudinal axis of the second lever 464 at the midpoint of its rangeof motion, such that the first lever is aligned like a belt,circumferentially extending along a portion of or approximately parallelto the wearer's waist. Normally the hip axis of rotation will be offsetinferiorly by at least about 3 inches, and often 5 inches or more fromthe iliac crest, which approximates the belt line for many wearers.Alternatively, the housing of the resistance element may be sewn oradhesively bonded or otherwise attached directly to reinforced fabric atthe hip.

The resistance element 468 may be any of the resistance elementsdisclosed elsewhere herein. In one embodiment, resistance element 468may comprise a rotary damper containing a fluid such as air, water or aviscous media such as silicone oil. The rotary damper may be rated toprovide anywhere within the range of from about 0.1 inch pounds to about50 inch pounds torque depending upon the joint or other motion segmentto be loaded and desired intensity. Generally, in a toning garment,torque at the hip may be in the range of from about 2 inch pounds toabout 8 inch pounds, and often no more than about 6 inch pounds. For theathletic training market, higher torques such as at least about 3 or 5or 7 inch pounds, and some implementations at least about 10 or 15 inchpounds or higher may be desirable at the hip.

Torque at the knee will generally be less than at the hip. Values ofgenerally no more than about 85% or 50% or 35% of the torque at the hipmay be desirable in a toning garment at the knee, measured at 30 RPM forfully rotational dampers at approximately STP. As discussed elsewhereherein, the resistance element at any given joint can provide the sameor different resistance (including zero) upon flexion or extension.

Referring to FIGS. 15-16, the resistance element 468 may comprise agenerally disc shaped housing, having a diameter of less than about 4 or3 or 2.5 inches, and a thickness in an axial direction of less thanabout 0.75 and preferably less than about 0.5 inches. A connector 472 isrotatably carried by the housing 468. Connector 472 may be a post or anaperture, having a non-circular (e.g. square, hexagonal, triangular,circular with at least one spline or flat side) cross-section such thata complementary post or aperture may be axially positioned in engagementwith the connector 472, to transmit rotational torque.

Referring to FIGS. 15-16, the resistance element 468 housing may besecured to either the first lever 462 or the second lever 464. Theconnector 472 may be secured to the other of the first lever 462 andsecond lever 464. Resistance element 468 thus provides resistance tomotion of the first lever 462 with respect to the second lever 464,throughout an angular range of motion about the axis of rotation 470.

In an alternative configuration, the levers may be mounted on the sameside of the resistance element 468 to provide an overall lower profile.Referring to FIG. 16, second lever 464 is provided with a post forrotationally engaging the connector 472 which is in the form of acomplementary aperture. Post 474 extends through an aperture 475 in thefirst lever 462. Aperture 475 has a diameter that exceeds the maximumtransverse dimension of the post 474, such that post 474 may rotatewithout imposing any force on first lever 462. The housing of resistanceelement 468 is immovably secured with respect to first lever 462 such asby adhesive bonding, molding, interference snap fit or other immovableconnection.

Referring to FIG. 17, a hip resistance unit 458 is illustrated assecured to a garment 450 although the following description also appliesto resistance elements at the knee. Depending upon the configuration ofthe lever arms, the stretchability of the fabric, and the level ofresistance imposed by resistance element 468, one or more reinforcementor force transfer or dissipation features may be necessary to transfersufficient force between the lever arm and the garment, while minimizingstretching or wrinkling of the garment. In the illustrated embodiment,first lever 462 is additionally provided with a first force dissipationlayer 476. Force dissipation layer 476 may comprise any of a variety offabrics, such as those disclosed previously herein and below inconnection with FIG. 25A.

In one implementation, the fabric comprises one or more strands of yarnor filament 477 having a vector extending in the as worn anteriorposterior direction which exhibits relatively low stretch. See FIG. 25A.A plurality of strands 477 can be woven in an orientation that isapproximately at a tangent to at least about 2 or 4 or 8 or 10 or morepoints around the resistance element housing to optimize resistance torotation of the housing relative to the garment. Force dissipation layer476 may be attached to the edges and/or lateral and/or medial surfacesof first lever 462 or the damper housing or docking station forreceiving a damper such as by stitching, adhesives or other fastener,and extend in the anterior posterior direction beyond the edges of thefirst lever 462 to provide an attachment zone both anteriorly andposteriorly of the first lever 462. In the embodiment of FIG. 25A, theforce dissipation layer is the lever, securing the damper againstrotation with respect to the adjacent fabric. The attachment zones maybe secured to the underlying garment by stitching, adhesives or both, orstraps, strands or other fasteners known in the art.

The first force dissipation later 476 may extend beneath, within thesame plane, or across the outside (lateral) surface of the first lever462, entrapping the first lever 462 between the force dissipation layer476 and the garment 450.

The force dissipation layer is preferably a technical fabric weave,comprising any of a variety of strands identified previously herein.Preferably the fabric has stretch resistance along at least one axis,which can be aligned with an axis under tension during flexion orextension due to the resistance element (e.g. the AP plane). The fabricmay exhibit a higher level of stretch along other axes. The fabric alsopreferably exhibits low weight, high breathability and high flexibility.Some suitable fabrics include shoe upper fabric from running shoesincluding, for example, that disclosed in US patent publication No.2014/0173934 to Bell, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference in its entirety herein. Additional multilayer fabrics havinggood flexibility, and stretch resistance along one axis and higherstretch along a transverse or nonparallel axis, useful for the forcedissipation layer are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,555,415 toBrandstreet et al; U.S. Pat. No. 8,312,646 to Meschter et al; and U.S.Pat. No. 7,849,518 to Moore et al., the disclosures of each of which areincorporated in their entireties herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 21, there is illustrated a resistance unit 458comprising a first lever 462 configured for attachment to the garment toat least approximately align the rotational axis of the resistanceelement with the hip, as discussed below. First lever 462 may beprovided with any of a variety of attachment structures such as a forcedissipation layer, Velcro or at least one and typically two or moreslots 488 for connection to a strap, belt or other fastener associatedwith the garment. First lever 462 may comprise any of a variety ofpolymeric membranes or fabrics disclosed elsewhere herein, which may bebonded or stitched directly to the garment, or held by a belt to theoutside of the garment.

Lever 462 is pivotably connected to a second lever 464 by way ofresistance element 468 as has been described. Resistance element 468 maycomprise any of a variety of resistance elements, such as frictionbrakes, malleable materials, clutches, or rotary viscous dampers as hasbeen discussed. Resistance element 468 may be securely permanently orremovably mounted to the second lever arm 464 (as illustrated) or tofirst lever arm 462 or both. A post 474 (FIG. 19) is secured to thefirst lever arm 462, and extends through a complementary aperture in theresistance element 468. In this manner, rotation of the second lever 464about the rotational axis of resistance element 468 with respect to thefirst lever 462 experiences the resistance provided by resistanceelement 468. Second lever 464 may be provided with a force dissipationlayer and/or one or two or three or four or more inferior connectors490. As illustrated, inferior connectors 490 may be apertures such asslots for receiving a strap or filament for securement to the pant leg.

Preferably, a quick release 475 is provided, to engage and disengage theresistance, and or enable disassembly into component parts. Quickrelease 475 is illustrated as a knob which may be rotatable, or axiallymovable between a first and a second position to engage or disengage thedamper. Any of a variety of quick release mechanisms maybe utilized,such as a threaded engagement, or a pin or flange which can rotate intoengagement behind a corresponding flange or slot. Quick release 475allows rapid removal of the damper, or the damper and femoral lever arm,as is discussed in more detail below.

Referring to FIG. 22, an exploded view illustrates the first lever 462having post 474 secured thereto such that rotation of the post istransferred to the lever. A friction modifier 463 such as a washer ormembrane that may comprise a friction reducing material such as alubricious polymer (e.g., PTFE) may be provided to separate the firstlever 462 from second level 464. Alternatively the friction modifier 463may be a friction enhancer, such as one or two or more washers having afriction enhancing surface texture, which create resistance to movementand can therefore supplement or replace the rotational damper.

Connectors 465 may be provided for locking the construct together.Connectors 465 may comprise one or more locking rings, nuts, pins orother structure. Preferably, a quick release mechanism 475 such as aquick release lever, rotatable knob or snap fit that allows the wearerto quickly engage or disengage the resistance unit 458 into componentsubassemblies, as will be described.

Skeletal motion at the hip during normal activities including walkinginvolves complex, multidirectional movement of the femoral head withinthe acetabular cup. However when viewed to isolate out the singlecomponent of movement in the anterior-posterior (“AP”) plane, the femurswings forward and back like a pendulum, pivoting about a rotationalaxis 469 (FIGS. 28 and 32) which extends laterally through theapproximate centers of the roughly spherical left and right femoralhead. The length of the femur remains unchanged throughout the stridecycle, such that the linear distance from the axis of rotation 469 and areference point 524 on the femur remains constant throughout the walkingcycle. The reference point 524 may be approximately half way between theproximal limit of the femoral head and the distal limit of the medialcondyle although any other fixed reference point could be used.

Many of the resistance elements disclosed herein exhibit a fixed axis ofrotation. Ideally, the exercise garment of the present invention of thetype having a fixed rotational axis can be worn by a wearer such thatthe rotational axis of the resistance element is coincident with therotational axis 469 of the femur. However, due to a combination offactors including the stretch of the fabric and dissimilarities fromwearer to wearer in the contour of the soft tissue between the femur andthe garment, the two rotational axes will normally not perfectly align.An imaginary straight-line in the AP plane which connects the anatomicalrotational axis 469 and the rotational axis of the resistance elementdefines an offset which has the effect of pulling or pushing the secondlever 464 along its longitudinal axis relative to the femur throughoutthe stride cycle. If force in all directions from the second lever 464is effectively transmitted to the garment, this axial reciprocalmovement of the second level 464 with respect to the wearer and garmentthrough the offset distance 526 may cause a variety of undesirableresults, including chafing of the garment up and down against the leg,wrinkling or buckling the fabric of the garment and/or the material ofthe second lever 464.

It may therefore be desirable to decouple axial movement of the secondlever 464 from the garment, while maintaining a high degree of forcetransmission between the second lever 464 and the garment in the APplane.

Referring to FIG. 25, one convenient structure for accomplishing theforegoing is to provide an elongated pocket 528 extending in an inferiorsuperior direction along the lateral side of each leg of the garment.The pocket 528 comprises an opening 530 at a superior end thereof,providing access to an elongate cavity, for removably receiving thesecond lever 464. An anterior limit 534 of the pocket 528 and aposterior limit 536 of the pocket 528 are dimensioned relative to thewidth of the second lever 464 to provide a snug fit against relative APmovement, but which permits axial sliding of the second lever 464 alongits longitudinal axis within the pocket. The axial length of the pocketexceeds the axial length of the second level 464, thereby enabling thesecond level 464 to reciprocate up and down within the pocket 528without transmitting inferior superior plane movement to the garment.

The axial length of the pocket 528 is preferably at least about 8inches, and in some implementations it is at least about 10 inches or 12inches or 14 inches or more in length, depending upon the garment size,fabric stretch and resistance level of the resistance unit. The lengthof the pocket will preferably exceed the length of the associated leverby an amount sufficient to compensate for the likely offset 526 betweenthe rotational axis of the hip and the rotational axis of the damper.Typically, that offset will be less than about 2 inches, and preferablyless than about 1 inch or 0.5 inches. The lever 464 will preferablyaxially reciprocate within the pocket 528 with minimal friction. Forthis purpose, the lever may be constructed from or coated with alubricious material. In addition, the interior surface of the pocketpreferably comprises a material with a low coefficient of friction withrespect to the surface of the lever. The interior of the pocket 528 maybe provided with one or two or five or 10 or more axially extendingfilaments or raised ridges, to reduce the contact surface area betweenthe lever 464 and the pocket 528. The interior of the pocket 528 may belined either partially or completely with a membrane having a lowfriction surface. Thus, a pocket liner comprising any of a variety ofmaterials such as nylon, PTFE, polyethylene terephthalate, PEEK, metalfilms or other materials may be utilized depending upon the intendedperformance characteristics.

The inside width of the pocket is preferably dimensioned such that thelever is not able to move significantly in the AP plane with respect tothe pocket. The width of the pocket therefore preferably only exceedsthe width of the lever by a sufficient amount to permit the desiredaxial movement of the lever without transferring axial movement to thegarment. Alternatively, the width may be adjustable between a largerwidth such as for inserting the lever, and a smaller width for efficientlateral force transfer. That may be accomplished by advancing a zipperalong the length of the pocket to bring two parallel reference edgescloser together, with straps connected to the pant leg on one side ofthe pocket and connectable (e.g., with Velcro) to the pant leg on anopposite side of the pocket.

Alternatively, the resistance unit 458 can be provided with any of thevariety of axial expansion dampers, positioned between the rotationalaxis of resistance element 468 and a portion of the second lever 464which is immovably secured to the garment. Axial extension dampers mayinclude first and second side by side or concentric telescopingcomponents, which through relative axial sliding motion allow the secondlever 464 or other attachment point to the garment to reciprocallylengthen and shorten. Alternative structures such as springs, diamondshaped cells, etc., can allow axial shortening and lengthening of thesecond lever 464 between the rotational axis and the point of attachmentto the garment so that reciprocating movement of the femoral lever isnot transmitted to the garment. The proximal end of the lever may beprovided with an elongate, axially extending slot which receives a poston the damper having two opposing flat sides so that the lever canreciprocate axially but remain rotationally keyed to the post.

Referring to FIG. 25, there is illustrated a docking station 538 forreleasably receiving a resistance module 568. As illustrated in FIG.25A, the docking station 538 comprises a platform 540 for receiving adamper or other resistance module. The platform 540 comprises at leastone connector 542, for connecting with the resistance module. Theconnector may be a post or an aperture, for keyed connection with acorresponding connector on the damper or other resistance module. Theplatform 540 or connector 542 may be provided with a quick releasefeature 544, for releasably engaging a complementary quick releasecontrol such as a lever, button or rotatable knob as has been discussed.

Referring to FIG. 23, there is illustrated a left side resistance unit458 with the right side omitted for clarity. The resistance unit 458comprises a femoral lever 464 and a resistance element 468 as has beendescribed. In this illustration, the first lever 462 is in the form ofan approximately “T” or “Y” shaped hip support 560, configured tominimize the risk of rotation of the resistance element 468 with respectto the wearer. Hip support 560 comprises an anterior connector 562, suchas a buckle or strap or other fastener for fastening across the anteriorof the wearer's waist. The hip support 560 additionally comprises aposterior connector 564, for connection to or across the posterior sideof the wearer or garment. In the illustrated embodiment, posteriorconnector 564 is adjustably connected to a posterior strap 566. Theposterior strap 566 may be configured to extend across the posterior ofthe wearer and to connect to a right side resistance unit 458, such thatthe hip support 560 is connected to both the right and left resistanceunits 458, encircling at least a portion and preferably all of the waistof the wearer in the as worn configuration.

The axis of rotation of the resistance element 468 is displaced from thewearer's waist line along an inferior-superior axis 570. The posteriorconnector 564 extends along a longitudinal axis 572 which intersectswith the axis 570 at an angle 574. The angle 574 deviates fromperpendicular by at least about 2°, and in some embodiments at leastabout 3° or 5° or more.

The posterior strap 566 maybe adjustably connected to the posteriorconnector 564. In one implementation, one of the posterior strap 566 orconnector 564 is provided with a plurality of apertures 576. The otheris provided with at least one post 578. In an alternate embodiment, thetwo components may be secured by Velcro, or a buckle. In a furtherimplementation, the strap 566 is slidably engaged with the posteriorconnector 564. This may be accomplished, for example, by providing afirst raised rail 580 and a second raised rail 582 defining a recess 584there between within which the posterior strap 566 can slide. Posteriorconnector 564 may be retained within the recess 584 such as by a flangeon one or both of the rails 580 and 582, or by connecting the rails 580and 582 to form an enclosure for receiving posterior connector 566.Enclosure may be formed by a plastic restraint, integrally formed withthe posterior connector 564, or by a fabric enclosure.

The components of the hip support 560 may comprise polymeric membranes,various technical fabrics as has been described elsewhere herein, orcombinations of the two, in order to optimize comfort, fit andstructural integrity of the connection of the hip support 562 to thewearer. Any portions or all of the hip support may be distinctstructures attached to or worn over the top or under the garment, or maybe structural fabric and components woven or sewn into the garment.

Preferably, the hip support 560 is constructed largely in fabric, suchthat it has sufficient flexibility and durability to be comfortable,durable, and able to withstand normal washing and drying cycles. In apreferred embodiment, the first lever 462 is provided with a dockingstation for removably receiving and engaging the resistance element 468and second lever 464.

Thus, referring to FIG. 24, a modular detachable femoral resistancecomponent 568 may be provided. The femoral component 568 may compriseone or both of the second lever 464 and the resistance element 468. Inthe illustrated embodiment, resistance element 468 is bonded orotherwise secured to the second lever arm 464 to provide an integralmodular femoral resistance component 568.

Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, this configuration allows the wearer toput the garment on with just the hip support 560 secured thereto. Oncethe garment is on, the second lever 464 may be inserted within thepocket 528 running down the lateral side of the leg or otherwiseremovably secured to the garment or the wearer's leg. The resistanceelement 468 is then aligned with the docking station on first lever 462,seated and coupled thereto. This may be accomplished by advancing afirst connector such as the aperture on resistance element 468 over asecond, complementary connector such as the post on first lever 462 toachieve rotational engagement, and locking the resistance element 468into place using any of a variety of quick lock or release features.These include interference (snap) fit, or any of a variety of twistconnectors, locking pins or levers or others known in the art.

The modular femoral resistance component 568 may be uncoupled from thedocking station by manipulating the quick release control, and removedfrom the garment such as to permit removing the garment from the wearer,and or placing the garment in the wash. In addition, a wearer may beprovided with a plurality of matched pairs of modular femoral components568, each pair having resistance elements 468 with a different level ofresistance. This modularity enables the wearer to select the desiredlevel of resistance depending upon a given use environment, as well asto facilitate washing, and optimizing the useful life of whichevercomponents of the detachable component resistance toning system have thegreatest useful life.

Rotary dampers (sometimes called dashpots) suitable for use in thepresent invention are precision fluid damping devices which give asmooth resistance to shaft rotation which increases with angularvelocity. At least of two types of dashpot may be used with the presentinvention, in view of the reciprocating, limited range of motionassociated with the human stride. Vane dashpots give a restricted traveland high damping rate particularly suitable for reciprocating motions.Continuous rotation dashpots give less damping rate but unlimited travelwhich is useful but not necessary in the context of the toning andtraining garments of the type, for example, illustrated in FIG. 31.Continuous rotation dashpots may be desirable in certain constructs,such as in connection with an embodiment, in which resistance elementincludes a rotary damper with a spool and cable system which may rotatethrough more than one full revolution per stride in each directiondepending upon the pulley diameter and potential gear configurations.

Silicone fluid (Polydimethyl Siloxane) is a suitable damping mediumbecause of its stable viscous properties. A variety of other dampeningmedia may also be used such as fluorocarbon gels or other viscous greaseproducts, water or air depending upon damper design and intendedperformance. Dashpots are normally vacuum filled and sealed for life,and the housing or coatings on the housing can comprise materials havinggood corrosion resistance in the intended use environment. Thatenvironment includes repeated exposure to salinity and other content ofperspiration as well as detergents and other solutes utilized inconventional clothes washing machine cycles. Other fluids such as air orwater may alternatively be used.

The vane dashpot is a displacement damper. As the vane or piston on theshaft rotates between one or more fixed vanes or barriers on the body,silicone fluid is displaced through controlled clearances from one sideof the fixed barrier to the other. Damping can be in both directions orvalves can be fitted to give damping in one direction only. Thus, forexample, the hip or knee or both may be provided with resistance in bothdirections or against anterior motion (like walking through waist deepwater) but no resistance or low resistance against posterior motion.Continuous rotation dashpots give viscous damping by shearing thinlayers of silicone fluid between the concentric surfaces of a rotor anda fixed stator.

Damping can be adjusted in the case of dampers that utilizeelectro-rheological fluid (ERF) or magneto-rheological fluid (MRF), bychanging the viscosity of the fluid.

In an MRF damper, micron-sized, magnetically polarized particles aresuspended in a carrier fluid such as silicone oil or mineral oil. MRF iscapable of responding to an applied magnetic field in a fewmilliseconds. The material properties of an MRF can change rapidly byincreasing or decreasing the intensity of the applied magnetic field.The material property can be viewed as a controllable change in theapparent viscosity of the fluid by varying the current supplied to, forexample, an adjacent electromagnet. A higher fluid apparent viscositycan be exploited to provide a higher damping force or pressure-dropacross an MRF valve.

Energy to drive the electromagnet and associated electronics can besupplied by a battery, solar cells, or an on board generator to scavengeelectricity from body heat or motion. In one implementation, arotational generator may be carried by the garment and driven byrotational movement at the hip or the knee or both. A control may beprovided to allow the wearer to toggle between a low resistance and ahigh resistance mode, or to also adjust the resistance to intermediatevalues as desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 29-30, a rotary damper is illustrated. Theapparatus includes a housing 500 defining a housing interior 502 forcontaining damper fluid (not shown) of any conventional nature. Thehousing interior has a substantially circular cross section and isformed by a toroidal or cylindrical (illustrated) inner housing surface504 disposed about and spaced from a central axis 470. The housing 500includes two adjoining housing members 506, 508, each housing memberdefining a portion of the housing interior.

A vane or piston 510 having an outer peripheral piston surface at whichis located an outer seal 512 is in substantially fluid-tight, slidableengagement with the inner housing surface, spaced from axis 470 anddisposed along a common plane with the axis 470. The housing 500 and thepiston 510 are relatively rotatably moveable about the axis, as will bedescribed in greater detail below.

A fluid barrier 514 in the form of a plate is immovably attached to thehousing and positioned in the housing interior.

The fluid barrier 514 defines multiple flow control orifices orpassageways 516 which permit restricted passage of damper fluidtherethrough responsive to relative rotational movement between thepiston 510 and the housing to dampen forces applied to the apparatuscausing the relative rotational movement.

A shaft or aperture 518 extends through the housing interior along axis470 and projects outwardly from at least one opposed side of thehousing, the shaft passing through openings of the housing.

Piston 510 is secured to shaft 518 such as by radially extending arm 520affixed to shaft. Relative rotational movement between the housing andthe aperture 518 causes the piston 510 to rotate about axis 470. Thiswill cause damper fluid in the housing interior to pass through flowcontrol passageways 516 and thus resist the relative rotationalmovement.

Any of a variety of alternative specific damper constructions may beutilized as will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Lineardampers may also be used, along with associated lever arms, or mountedin line in a pulley system.

Referring to FIG. 31, there is illustrated a training garment 451 havinga right leg 452 and a left leg 454. The training garment 451 is similarto the toning garment 450 shown in FIG. 34, although may have moretechnical fabric and potentially higher or different resistancecharacteristics.

The training garment preferably comprises at least one stretch panel550, for providing a snug fit and optional compression. The panel mayexhibit stretch in at least a circumferential direction around the legand waist. Stretch panel 550 may comprise any of a variety of fabricsdisclosed elsewhere herein. The panel may include woven textile havingyarns at least partially formed from any of polyamide, polyester, nylon,spandex, wool, silk, or cotton materials, for example. Moreparticularly, the yarns may be eighty percent polyamide and twentypercent spandex in some configurations. When formed from a combinationof polyamide and spandex, for example, the stretch woven textile mayexhibit at least thirty percent stretch prior to tensile failure, butmay also exhibit at least fifty percent or at least eighty percentstretch prior to tensile failure. In some configurations of garment 451,the stretch in stretch woven textile may equal or exceed one-hundredpercent prior to tensile failure. The optimal amount of stretch willnormally be the maximum stretch that still allows the wearer to movecomfortably with maximum force transfer between the wearer's movementand movement of the resistance units. Too much stretch in a direction offorce imposed by the resistance unit will allow the fabric to stretchrather than transfer all of the wearer's motion to the resistance unit.

At least one and in some implementations at least two or three or moretechnical fabric support panels 552 are provided on each of the rightand left legs, to facilitate force transfer between the wearer and thehip resistance unit 458 and, when present, the knee resistance unit 460.The technical support panel 552 may be provided with at least one andnormally a plurality of reinforcement strands 554 extending along apattern to facilitate force transfer and maintaining fit of the garmentthroughout the range of motion in opposition to the resistance providedby the resistance unit. The technical fabric support panel 552 may bepositioned over the entire height of the garment (as illustrated) or maybe localized in the vicinity of the resistance units.

Yarns extending along a non-stretch or low stretch axis withinnon-stretch woven textile panel may be at least partially formed fromany of polyamide, polyester, nylon, spandex, wool, silk, cotton or otherhigh tensile strength strands disclosed herein. Depending upon thematerials selected for the yarns, non-stretch woven textile may exhibitless than ten percent stretch prior to tensile failure, but may alsoexhibit less than five percent stretch or less than three percentstretch at least along the non-stretch axis prior to tensile failure.

A plurality of different panels of each of stretch woven textile andnon-stretch woven textile may be joined to form garment 451. That is,garment 451 may have various seams that are stitched or glued, forexample, to join the various elements of stretch woven textile andnon-stretch woven textile together. Edges of the various elements ofstretch woven textile and non-stretch woven textile may be folded inwardand secured with additional seams to limit fraying and impart a finishedaspect to the garment. The garment 451 may be provided with one or morezippers, hook and loop fasteners or other releasable fasteners disclosedherein, such as one extending the full or partial length of one or bothlegs, to facilitate getting into and out of the garment. One or morenon-stretch panels may be removably secured to the garment using azipper or equivalent structure, hook and loop sections or otherwise.This enables the garment to be pulled on in a relatively stretchablemode. Following proper positioning of the garment on the wearer, forcetransfer features such as one or more low stretch features such as inthe form of straps or panels can be secured to or tightened on thegarment to reduce the stretch along the axes which will experience themost tensile force from the resistance units during motion of thewearer.

In general, the low stretch axis will be aligned in theanterior-posterior direction, or at least have a vector resolutioncomponent in the anterior posterior direction particularly for thefemoral lever. Generally the low stretch axis will be within about 45degrees up or 45 degrees down of horizontal, with the garment in thenormal standing (vertical) orientation. The non stretch axis of thefabric at the hip will be oriented to resist rotation of the dockingstation, and thus will be oriented differently depending upon thepresence or absence of an elongate, structural lever arm.

Stretch panels may be formed in the configuration of straps, having alength that exceeds the width, and constructed similar to the watersportwaist band of U.S. Pat. No. 7,849,518 or U.S. Pat. No. 8,555,415,previously incorporated herein. The longitudinal axis of the strap mayextend circumferentially around the waist or leg above and or below eachresistance unit to cooperate with the lever or other force transferstructure to shield the stretch fabric from tensile force.Alternatively, if less constriction on fit is desired, the axis of thestrap may be angled up or down with respect to horizontal to extend in aspiral path which extends at least about 20%, often at least about 50%and in some embodiments at least about 75% or 100% or more of thecircumference of the wearer's leg or waist. See FIG. 13 which canillustrate a non-stretch strap configuration which may be embeddedwithin or over a multilayer stretch fabric panel garment.

Resistance garments in accordance with the present invention can beconfigured as independent biometric sensing and feedback devices, or canbe configured to communicate and/or cooperate with external electronicsystems and devices, such as cell phones, the internet, local areanetworked devices and particularly activity tracking devices such asthose produced by Fitbit, Inc., San Francisco, Calif. (see, for example,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/156,304, filed on Jun. 8, 2011,entitled “Portable Monitoring Devices and Methods of Operating Same”which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

Biometric and/or ambient condition, spatial location, motion or othersensors and processing circuitry may be integrated into the garment orother support associated with the resistance element, or may beseparately worn by the wearer such as when the garment is configured topair with a wearable activity tracker such as any of a variety of Fitbitmodels. One or more sensors carried by the garment or the wearer of thegarment can include, for example, electromyography (EMG),electrocardiograph (ECG), respiration, galvanic skin response (GSR),temperature, acceleration, bend angle, pressure, force, torque, GPS,accelerometer (single or multi axis), respiration, perspiration,bioimpedence, gyroscopes, various rate measurements such as stride rate,flex rate, pulse (heart) rate, spatial orientation, deviation orposition, oxygen saturation, blood glucose, or others describedelsewhere herein. Sensors may also be provided to detect, measure and/orsense data which is representative of hydration, height, weight, sunexposure, blood pressure and/or arterial stiffness. See, for example,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/476,128, filed on Sep. 3, 2014,entitled “Biometric Monitoring Device Having a Body Weight Sensor andMethods of Operating Same” which is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety). The use of multiple sensors for the same parameter ormultiple sensors for multiple parameters may provide a level of insightthat is not available by measuring only a single metric such as heartrate (HR) or motion based on accelerometers or other types of motionsensors (e.g., a gyroscope). Sensors may be incorporated in a permanentmanner into the fabric of the form-fitting interactive garment itself orin a detachable manner such as with zippers, snap fit connectors,clasps, hook and loop (Velcro) or other releasable connectors and/or inpockets or under or on top of flaps if desired, to allow removal and/orrepositioning of the sensors.

Biometric or other data parameters and/or data derived from biometric orother parameters can be displayed and/or stored for subsequent displayin a form that indicates an incremental effect of the resistanceprovided by a resistance element in accordance with the presentinvention. For example, a wearer might walk for 1,000 actual steps. Ifthose steps were taken while wearing a resistance garment as disclosedherein, a ‘steps equivalent’ may be calculated and displayed indicatingthe equivalent number of steps that would have been required to havebeen taken to have burned an equivalent amount of calories or perform anequivalent amount of work. So the 1,000 steps with a first resistancelevel rating might be an equivalent amount of work to 1,100 actual stepswithout the resistance unit. Thus the resistance garment produced anincremental 10% energy burn or effort over steps taken without theresistance elements. A second resistance level unit might enable 1,000steps to be equivalent to 1200 steps without the resistance unit. Fixedresistance units can be provided at a variety of resistance levels,configured to produce an incremental burden of at least about 10%, 20%30%, 50% 75% or more in excess of the burden incurred by the activitysuch as walking in the absence of the resistance unit. In configurationsdesigned more for athletic training than toning, potentially incrementalloads of at least about 100% or 150% or 200% or more over the unburdenedbaseline may be desirable.

The incremental effect of the resistance units can be expressed invarious other ways, such as incremental power (Watts) or incrementalcalories burned. So if 2,500 steps would normally burn 1100 calories fora particular wearer in the absence of a resistance garment, the same2500 steps might burn at least about 10% or 20% or 30% or 50% or moreincremental calories for the same 2500 steps while wearing a resistancegarment. The incremental effect can alternatively be calculated as aneffective slope equivalent. A baseline slope can be selected, such ashorizontal. Walking along a substantially horizontal surface whilewearing a resistance garment, depending upon the resistance level, mightbe the equivalent of walking uphill along a slope of plus at least about4 degrees, at least about 10 degrees, at least about 15 degrees at leastabout 20 degrees or more.

Incremental elevation or change of respiration rate, pulse rate, bloodgas such as CO2 or O2, temperature, blood glucose may be measured orcalculated, so that the wearer, care provider or friends connected viasocial media or other networking environment can see the physiologicalbenefit provided by wearing the resistance units of the presentinvention.

Synchronization between the wearable resistance device and a wearableactivity tracker can be accomplished either automatically (e.g.wirelessly) or manually. For example, in the example above of aresistance garment carrying a resistance unit which is rated to providean incremental 20% calorie burn or resistance to walking, a code carriedby the resistance unit corresponding to the level of resistance can beinput into the activity tracker, and the activity tracker programmed tocalculate the parameter equivalent accomplished by the wearer whileutilizing that resistance element. So the activity tracker can reflectthat the actual 1000 steps with the resistance unit was the equivalentof 1200 steps without the resistance unit.

More simply, the activity tracker can be programmed to receive an inputof a factor corresponding to the resistance value of a particularresistance unit. The factor would cause the activity tracker to reportthe effective value (e.g., 115 steps) rather than or in addition to theactual value (e.g., 100 steps) for the parameter of interest.

Alternatively, the activity tracker may be caused to periodically oron-demand ping an interrogator signal. The resistance element or thegarment carrying the resistance element may be provided with a RFID orother identification tag or circuit which can reflect a signal back tothe activity tracker, indicating the resistance rating. The activitytracker can then calculate an equivalent value for a parameter ofinterest being displayed or available for display, indicating theincremental change relating to that parameter caused by the resistanceelement. In more complex systems, the resistance element, activitytracker and optionally sensors carried by the garment can be incommunication using any of a variety of wired or wireless protocols suchas ANT, ANT+, Bluetooth, WiFi, ZigBee or others known in the art.

Thus, an activity tracker configured to pair with the resistance garmentof the present invention may be provided with an input, configured toreceive a compensation factor which will enable conversion of a measuredor calculated parameter into an equivalent, taking into account theeffect of the resistance units on the measured parameter. The input maybe configured for the user to manually input the compensation factor.Alternatively, the input may be configured to wirelessly receive thecompensation factor from the resistance unit. The activity tracker maybe configured to record and or display or output the equivalent value,and optionally also the actual value of the parameter of interest. Forexample, the activity tracker may be configured for receiving an inputindicating that each actual step will require the wearer to exert 1.2steps worth of effort. The activity tracker will therefore display 120step equivalents for every one hundred actual steps taken by the wearer,while the corresponding resistance element is engaged.

For embodiments of the present invention utilizing a viscous damper, theresistance to movement will vary as a function of angular velocity. Forany of the embodiments disclosed herein, and particularly for viscousdamper embodiments, it may therefore be desirable to measure actualpower rather than merely calculating a metric of work based upon thenumber of repetitions. Preferably, the level of exertion will bedescribed in terms of wattage (intensity) and Joules of work (quantity)being done, from which calories burned can be determined and displayedor saved.

A variety of power sensors are known in the performance bicycle arts,which may be readily adapted for use in the present context. Typically,a power sensor such as a strain gauge will be positioned such that itcaptures force exerted by the wearer. Power sensors maybe positioned ina variety of locations on the garment, such as on the anterior side andor posterior side of the lower limit of the garment (knee or ankle),and/or carried by the resistance unit and its attachment structures.Torque or other angular sensors may be attached to the resistance unit,and/or the mounting station for receiving the resistance unit. All maybe provided with wired or wireless communication back to a centralprocessing unit carried by the garment, or to a remote device such asthe activity tracker, cell phone, or other as has been described.Although power output by the wearer is perhaps most convenientlymeasured by utilizing the relative rotation of the femoral lever withrespect to the hip, wireless power output sensors may be positionedelsewhere in the garment, and configured such as those disclosed inUnited States patent publication 2015/0057128 to Ishii, the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated in its entirety herein.

Any of the configurations disclosed herein may additionally beconfigured to determine and display a metric of total or incrementalpower (e.g., in Watts) expended by the wearer, or incremental caloriesburned, as a result of movement against the resistance provided by theresistance unit. For example, referring to FIG. 33, at least one or twoor more sensors 600 may be positioned in the force path between a firstsurface connected to the resistance element such as on the femoral leverarm, and a second surface mechanically connected to the wearer, such asan interior opposing force transmission surface within the sleeve. Splitlever arms may also be provided with a sensor positioned to be undercompression or shear between a first and second surfaces oncorresponding first and second portions of the lever arm when the wearermoves against the resistance.

In one configuration, at least a first, anterior sensor is provided onan anteriorly facing surface carried by the lever arm. The firstanterior sensor will be under compression as the wearer moves their legrearward (in extension). At least a first posterior sensor is providedon a posteriorly facing surface carried by the lever arm. The firstposterior sensor will be under compression as the wearer moves their legforward (in flexion). Two or three or more sensors may be provided tomeasure force upon flexion or extension such as to improve accuracy ofthe reading.

Alternatively, force sensors 602 may be mechanically connected to theshaft or otherwise configured to measure force at the point of rotationas in understood in the art. Signals from any or a combination ofsensors 600 and 602 may be used to calculate a metric of power expendedby the wearer to move against resistance provided by the resistanceelement. One system having strain gauges embedded in the hub of arotating construct for the purpose of measuring power is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 6,418,797 to Ambrosina et al., the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated in its entirety herein by reference. In anotherconstruction, the axel or post 474 is configured to undergo slightdeformation in response to applied torque, and sensors are positioned tomeasure strain as that deformation occurs. Additional details may befound in U.S. Pat. No. 6,356,847 to Gerlitzki, the disclosure of whichis hereby incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

The determination of expended power can be accomplished on only one ofthe right side or left side of the wearer, such as at the right hip orhip plus knee but not the opposing side. The value can be doubled, underthe assumption that the wearer's exertion will be bilaterallysymmetrical. Preferably, the force sensor system will be bilaterallysymmetrical on both the right and left side of the wearer, to allow thewearer to evaluate any asymmetries in power output.

A block diagram showing functional components of an electronics unit 590is shown in FIG. 34. Force sensor 600 is connected via wire interface604. A sensor such as a Flexiforce sensor (obtained from Tekscan ofSouth Boston, Mass., www.tekscan.com) may be used, having a conductancewhich is linear with force, and an analog interface 606 is used togenerate an output voltage that is linear with the applied force. Otheranalog interfaces may not generate an output voltage that is linear withforce, but they will generate a voltage that has a predeterminedrelationship to a force sensed by the force sensor. The analog interface606 may contain a variable reference circuit for adjusting a range ofthe output voltage, depending on the desired performance. The voltageoutput by the analog interface 606 drives an analog-to-digital converter608, which is controlled by a central processing unit (CPU) 610 andsampled at a known and constant rate. The CPU 610 may be, for example, amicroprocessor or a digital signal processor. The CPU 610 is responsiblefor executing a power algorithm 612 that calculates the wearer's powerexerted to overcome the resistance element based on force sensed by theforce sensor 600. Data resulting from the calculation is transmitted toa remote electronics unit (activity tracker, cell phone, heads updisplay, wrist worn display, internet, etc.) by a radio frequencytransmitter 614 and antenna 616 via a data channel. During calibrationmode, calibration port 618 is used to interface to electronics unit 590.EEPROM memory 620 stores data generated during calibration. Operatingpower is supplied, for example, by a battery driven power supply, whichis not shown but is very well known in the art. Some sensors arepreferably calibrated (zeroed) and may be susceptible to drift withchanging temperature. A temperature compensation circuit (not shown) ispreferably included, to determine the temperature of the sensor andcompensate for thermally induced error.

FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing functional components of a remoteelectronics unit that may display power or calories burned data to thewearer, coach or other application. An antenna 622 and a radio frequencyreceiver 624 receive data transmitted via the data channel. A CPU 626controls the user interface, which may include a display 628 andpotentially controls such as switches 630. Calibration data and userdata are stored in EEPROM memory 632. During calibration mode,calibration port 634 is used to interface to the electronics unit.Operating power for the electronics unit may be supplied, for example,by a battery driven power supply, which is not shown but is very wellknown in the art. Additional details may be found in U.S. Pat. No.7,599,806 to Hauschildt, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedin its entirety herein by reference.

Power may be displayed as real time data, peak, average, rolling averageor integrated over a predetermined interval of time (e.g., 10 second, 30second, I minute or more). Display may be visual, such as on a smartphone, activity tracker or other hand held, wrist worn or mounteddevice. Power may alternatively be displayed on a heads up display suchas an eyeglass with heads up display, or audibly over an audio outputusing a text to voice converter. Display may alternatively be configuredto provide an indication of crossing a preset value such as when poweroutput moves either above or below a preset upper or lower alarm limit.

Referring to FIG. 36 there is illustrated a simplified bilateral systemto implement the present invention indicated generally by the referencenumeral 640. A left leg power module 642 and a right leg power module644 are indicated by dotted lines and are in communication with acontrol and display unit 646, for example over a radio link 648 (e.g.,ANT+, Bluetooth, Zigbee or others disclosed elsewhere herein). Eachmodule 642, 644 comprises of one or more force sensor(s) 650, anaccelerometer 652 and related measurement electronics 654 carried byeach module. The display and control unit 646, usually battery powered,can be attached to any convenient place such as the the wrist of thewearer or other display as has been discussed. The connection betweenthe sensors and electronics in the module and the sensors andelectronics elsewhere on or in communication with the garment or wearermay be by wired conductors on or integrated into the garment, or may beby a wireless link such as radio protocols described elsewhere herein orby electromagnetic induction.

In a preferred embodiment the communication between the power moduleelectronics embedded in the resistance module and the display andcontrol unit is by a radio link 648. Each of left leg power module 642and right leg power module 644 uses the radio to transmit a set ofmeasurement data at one or more fixed points on each stride. Inoperation each of the power modules 642, 644 transmits its data in ashort burst when the stride reaches a fixed point in its cycle, such asat the heel strike or toe roll off. Because the two strides are 180degrees away from each other, data transmission can be timed to ensurethat the transmissions from each power module assembly will neverinterfere with each other. Each burst of data contains a set of samplesor measurements taken at regular intervals during the stride cycle, andmay include force, cadence, femoral (or other) extension angle andaccelerometer information. Each sample has an associated timestamp,which may be explicit or implicit, to specify its time relationship tothe other samples in the set and to other sets of samples. Theelectronics in the power modules may include processing of the databefore it is transmitted to the control unit 646. Additional details maybe found in U.S. Pat. No. 8,762,077 to Redmond, et al., the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

It may be desirable to monitor the wearer's oxygen saturation, toevaluate the transition between aerobic and anaerobic threshold as wellas the effect on that threshold of varying the degree of resistanceprovided by the resistance unit (by adjusting an adjustable resistanceunit or switching resistance units having different resistance levels).A sensor may be configured to be placed in contact with the wearer suchas by permanent or removable attachment to the garment, or independentattachment to the wearer. The sensor may be configured to obtain aplethysmography signal, although it should be understood that any deviceconfigured to obtain oxygen saturation and/or heart rate data may beused in accordance with the techniques of the present disclosure. Thesystem may include a monitor in communication with the sensor. Thesensor and the monitor may communicate wirelessly as shown, or maycommunicate via one or more cables (e.g., the sensor and the monitor maybe coupled via one or more cables). The sensor may include a sensorbody, which may support one or more optical components, such as one ormore emitters configured to emit light at certain wavelengths through atissue of the subject and/or one or more detectors configured to detectthe light after it is transmitted through the tissue of the subject.

The sensor may include one or more emitters and/or one or moredetectors. The emitter may be configured to transmit light, and thedetector may be configured to detect light transmitted from the emitterinto a patient's tissue after the light has passed through the bloodperfused tissue. The detector may generate a photoelectrical signalcorrelative to the amount of light detected. The emitter may be a lightemitting diode, a superluminescent light emitting diode, a laser diodeor a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). Generally, thelight passed through the tissue is selected to be of one or morewavelengths that are absorbed by the blood in an amount representativeof the amount of the blood constituent present in the blood. The amountof light passed through the tissue varies in accordance with thechanging amount of blood constituent and the related light absorption.For example, the light from the emitter may be used to measure bloodoxygen saturation, water fractions, hematocrit, or other physiologicalparameters of the patient. In certain embodiments, the emitter may emitat least two (e.g., red and infrared) wavelengths of light. The redwavelength may be between about 600 nanometers (nm) and about 700 nm,and the IR wavelength may be between about 800 nm and about 1000 nm.However, any appropriate wavelength (e.g., green, yellow, etc.) and/orany number of wavelengths (e.g., three or more) may be used. It shouldbe understood that, as used herein, the term “light” may refer to one ormore of ultrasound, radio, microwave, millimeter wave, infrared,visible, ultraviolet, gamma ray or X-ray electromagnetic radiation, andmay also include any wavelength within the radio, microwave, infrared,visible, ultraviolet, or X-ray spectra, and that any suitable wavelengthof light may be appropriate for use with the present disclosure.

The detector may be an array of detector elements that may be capable ofdetecting light at various intensities and wavelengths. In oneembodiment, light enters the detector after passing through the tissueof the wearer. In another embodiment, light emitted from the emitter maybe reflected by elements in the wearer's tissue to enter the detector.The detector may convert the received light at a given intensity, whichmay be directly related to the absorbance and/or reflectance of light inthe tissue of the wearer, into an electrical signal. That is, when morelight at a certain wavelength is absorbed, less light of that wavelengthis typically received from the tissue by the detector, and when morelight at a certain wavelength is transmitted, more light of thatwavelength is typically received from the tissue by the detector. Afterconverting the received light to an electrical signal, the detector maysend the signal to the monitor, where physiological characteristics maybe calculated based at least in part on the absorption and/or reflectionof light by the tissue of the wearer.

As indicated above, the monitoring system may be configured to monitorthe wearer's oxygen saturation and/or heart rate during exercise. Thesystem may also be configured to determine whether the wearer isutilizing an aerobic or an anaerobic pathway based at least in part onthe athlete's oxygen saturation and/or heart rate. For example, themonitoring system may compare the athlete's oxygen saturation and/orheart rate to one or more zones corresponding to various types ofexercise (e.g., aerobic exercise and anaerobic exercise) to determinewhether the wearer is utilizing the aerobic or the anaerobic pathways.Each of the one or more zones may be defined by a percentage or a rangeof percentages of oxygen saturation and/or a value or a range of valuesof heart rate, and each of the one or more zones may have an upper limitand a lower limit for oxygen saturation and/or heart rate. For example,a first zone may include an oxygen saturation range and/or a heart raterange corresponding to aerobic exercise, while a second zone may includean oxygen saturation range and/or heart rate range corresponding toanaerobic exercise. A visual, audio and/or tactile display or feedbackmay be provided to the wearer to indicate status and/or change in statusbetween an aerobic metabolism level of activity and an anaerobicmetabolism level of activity. Additional implementation details may befound in US patent publication No. 2015/0031970 to Lain, entitledSystems and Methods for Monitoring Oxygen Saturation During Exercise,the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety herein.

Although disclosed primarily in the context of lower body garments, anyof the resistance elements and attachment fabrics and structuresdisclosed herein can be adopted for use for any other motion segment onthe body, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, neck, abdomen (core) andvarious other motion segments of the upper body. Any of the variousresistance elements and attachment structures disclosed herein can beinterchanged with any other, depending upon the desired performance. Inaddition, the present invention has been primarily disclosed as coupledto a type of garment resembling a complete article of clothing such asthat illustrated in FIG. 31. However any of the resistance systemsdisclosed herein may be carried by any of a variety of braces, wearableclothing subassemblies, straps, cuffs or other wearable supportconstruct that is sufficient to mechanically couple one or moreresistance elements to the body and achieve the force transfer describedherein, that may be worn over or under conventional clothing.

What is claimed is:
 1. A toning garment, comprising: a waist; a leftleg, extending across a left hip and a left knee; a right leg, extendingacross a right hip and a right knee; a left fluid filled damper at theleft hip; a right fluid filled damper at the right hip; a left femorallever connected to the left fluid filled damper; a right femoral leverconnected to the right fluid filled damper; wherein at least a portionof the left and right femoral levers is axially reciprocally moveablewith respect to adjacent portions of the left and right leg of thegarment.
 2. A toning garment as in claim 1, wherein the left fluidfilled damper comprises a housing and a rotatable connector, wherein thehousing is secured against rotation with respect to the waist.
 3. Atoning garment as in claim 2, wherein the housing is secured to thegarment by stitching.
 4. A toning garment as in claim 2, wherein therotatable connector is linked to the leg so that flexion or extension atthe hip causes the connector to rotate.
 5. A toning garment as in claim4, wherein the rotatable connector is linked to the leg by a lever.
 6. Atoning garment as in claim 5, wherein the lever is sufficiently flexiblein the medial lateral direction to conform to the leg of a wearer whenthe garment is worn.
 7. A toning garment as in claim 6, furthercomprising at least one force dissipation panel attached to the lever.8. A toning garment as in claim 1, wherein the left and right dampersare removably secured to the garment.
 9. A toning garment as in claim 2,comprising at least one panel of compression fabric.
 10. A lower bodytoning garment, comprising: a waist portion, a right leg and a left leg;a left rotation point on a lateral side of the left leg and a rightrotation point on a lateral side of the right leg, the left and rightrotation points functionally aligned with a transverse axis of rotationextending through the center of rotation of a wearer's right and lefthip; a left resistance unit mounted at the left rotation point; a rightresistance unit mounted at the right rotation point; each of the leftand right resistance units comprising a housing and a lever armrotatable through a range of motion with respect to the housing; whereinthe housing for the left resistance unit is attached to the garment atthe left rotation point and a left lever arm is attached to the leftleg; and the housing for the right resistance unit is attached to thegarment at the right rotation point and a right lever arm is attached tothe right leg.
 11. A lower body toning garment as in claim 10,additionally comprising a force dissipation layer attached to each ofthe right and left resistance elements to resist rotation of theresistance elements with respect to the garment.
 12. A lower body toninggarment as in claim 10, additionally comprising a force dissipationlayer attached to each of the right and left lever arms to enhance forcetransfer.
 13. A lower body toning garment as in claim 10, wherein eachof the left and right resistance units provide at least about 10 inchpounds of torque.
 14. A lower body toning garment as in claim 10,wherein each of the left and right resistance units provide at leastabout 15 inch pounds of torque.
 15. A lower body toning garment as inclaim 10, wherein each of the left and right resistance units comprisesa fluid filled damper.
 16. A lower body toning garment as in claim 10,wherein each of the left and right resistance units is removably mountedto the garment.
 17. A lower body toning garment as in claim 10, whereinat least one of the left and right resistance units comprises anelectrical generator.
 18. A modular resistance unit for releasableconnection to a toning garment, comprising: a femoral lever having aproximal end and a distal end, a thickness and a width that exceeds athickness, the lever arm conformable to the leg of a wearer when mountedon the toning garment such that the width faces the leg of a wearer inan as worn orientation; a resistance unit carried by the proximal end ofthe lever; a coupling on the resistance unit, for releasable coupling toa complementary coupling carried by the garment; configured such thatwhen the femoral lever is secured to the leg of the garment, thecoupling on the resistance unit is connected to the complementarycoupling on the garment and the garment is worn by a wearer, the modularresistance unit provides resistance to movement at the wearer's hip. 19.A modular resistance unit as in claim 18, wherein the coupling comprisesan aperture for receiving a post carried by the garment.
 20. A modularresistance unit as in claim 18, further comprising a lock for lockingthe coupling on the resistance unit to the complementary couplingcarried by the garment.
 21. A wearable measurement system for measuringpower exerted by the wearer against a resistive force, comprising atleast one force sensor carried by the garment and configured formeasuring force exerted by the wearer upon motion which is opposed byresistance provided by a resistance element carried by the garment. 22.A resistance module, for releasable connection to a garment, comprising:a resistance element; a connector on the resistance element forreleasable connection to the garment; and a femoral lever, moveable withrespect to the connector.
 23. A resistance module as in claim 22,wherein the resistance element comprises a fluid damper.
 24. Aresistance module as in claim 22, wherein the resistance elementcomprises a rotary fluid damper.
 25. A resistance module as in claim 22,further comprising at least one force sensor.
 26. A resistance module asin claim 25, wherein the force sensor is carried by the femoral lever.27. A wearable resistance and measurement system, comprising: a wearablesupport, a resistance element carried by the support; a sensor forsensing force exerted by the wearer; a processing module for processingsensed force data; and a transmitter for transmitting data to a remotedevice.
 28. A wearable measurement system as in claim 27, wherein thetransmitter is an ANT+ configured transmitter.
 29. A wearablemeasurement system as in claim 27, configured to display exerted power.30. A wearable measurement system as in claim 27, configured to displaycalories consumed.
 31. A wearable support, for receiving a resistancemodule for providing resistance to movement across a range of motion,comprising: a support body, for mounting on the body of a wearer; adocking station on the support, located on a first portion of thewearer's body in an as worn configuration; a first connector on thedocking station, for receiving a resistance module; the first connectorsecured against rotation with respect to the support body; and a secondconnector on the support body, located on a second portion of thewearer's body in the as worn configuration, separated by the firstportion by a motion segment.
 32. A wearable support as in claim 31,wherein the support body comprises a waist portion for encircling thewaist of the wearer.
 33. A wearable support as in claim 31, wherein thefirst connector comprises a post.
 34. A wearable support as in claim 33,wherein the second connector is configured to receive a femoral leverattached to the resistance module.